Journal of Gastrointestinal & Digestive System
Open Access

Abstract

Chromogranin A (CgA), an acidic hydrophilic glycoprotein produced exclusively by the secretory granules of neuroendocrine cells, is found to be increased in gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NET) cases. Previous studies show that CgA has a high sensitivity as a serum biomarker in diagnosing GEP-NET. However, it has a low specificity since it is also increased in other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Diagnosis of GEP-NET through CgA serum level measurement has not been performed in Indonesia. Hence, this study aims to compare plasma CgA levels among normal patients, GEP-NET patients, and IBS patients in Indonesia. A cross-sectional study was performed among 176 individuals who had undergone Gastroenterology Consultation of which 126 patients were normal, 21 patients were IBS, and 29 patients were GEP-NET. IBS patients were identified using ROME III Criteria and GEP-NET patients were identified through histopathology examination from GI (Gastrointestinal) tract biopsy. Blood plasma serum was taken to measure the CgA serum level. Statistical analysis was performed using Kruskal-Wallis test. CgA serum levels were found to be significantly higher in both IBS and GEPNET group compared to those in normal group. The average CgA serum levels in IBS, GEP-NET, and normal group are 76.66, 173.78, and 50.72 with the median 64.82, 66.23, and 48.90 respectively. The CgA value between normal and GEP-NET or IBS group is found to be significantly different (p<0.001). CgA serum levels remain a reliable biomarker to diagnose GEP-NET, suggesting the use of CgA for screening GEP-NET in Indonesia. However, the rise in CgA level found in IBS patients speculates future possibilities of developing GEP-NET in IBS patients. Further studies need to be performed to determine the relationship between IBS and GEP-NET, in terms of CgA. ialyaone@gmail.com

Biography