Home
HelpTest ID FNEUR Neurotensin
Specimen Required
Patient preparation: Patient should be fasting 10-12 hours prior to collection. Patient should not be on any antacid medication or medications that affect gastroentero-intestinal function, if possible, for at least 48 hours prior to collection.
Specimen Type: Plasma
Container/Tube: Z tube
Specimen Volume: 3 mL
Collection Instructions: Draw 10 mL of blood in special Z-tube (MCL T701). Separate plasma form cells immediately after draw and send 3 mL of plasma frozen in plastic vial.
Method Name
Direct Radioimmunoassay (RIA)
Reporting Name
NeurotensinSpecimen Type
PlasmaSpecimen Minimum Volume
1 mL
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plasma | Frozen | 30 days |
Clinical Information
Neurotensin is a 13 amino acid peptide produced primarily by endocrine cells of the ileal mucosa. Physiological actions of Neurotensin include hypertension, vasodilation, hyperglycemia, and inhibition of gastric motility. Its C-terminus is similar to Angiotensin I. It is a potent analgesic affecting hypothermia, muscle relaxation, and decreased motor activity. Pancreatic Polypeptide secretion is strongly stimulated by Neurotensin. Neurotensin appears to cause the release of Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone and Corticotropin Releasing Hormone effecting the release of Luteinizing Hormone, Follicle Stimulating Hormone, and ACTH but not Thyroid Stimulating Hormone or Growth Hormone. Neurotensin also stimulates pancreatic bicarbonate and intestinal secretion. Neurotensin levels are stimulated by food and Bombesin. Elevated levels have been found in pancreatic endocrine tumors, Oat Cell, Squamous, and Adeno Carcinomas.
Elevated levels have been found to cause watery diarrhea.
Reference Values
50 - 100 pg/mL
Cautions
No significant cautionary statements
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Friday
Report Available
7 to 11 daysPerforming Laboratory
Inter Science InstituteTest Classification
This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by Inter Science Institute. It has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. The FDA has determined that such clearance or approval is not necessary.CPT Code Information
83519