Question abou blood test

[Nvrenfhorses2]

Has anyone here have a test for CHROMOGRANIN A, LC/MS/MS my level was 158. Normal is less than 3. I have had lung issues blood clots and chest pain. Went to gastric for 4 weird episodes of extraordinary pain that feel like a ballooning in my chest, ribs , back. No rhyme or reason for the episodes.

[DRunnerchick]

I have not had this test but I do know it is a neuro endocrine test. Do you know what the doctor was looking for? Have a return visit to discuss result?

Do you take a PPI?

I do know that there is a correlation between CgA and TNF-a in rheumatoid diseases. Also, sometimes the test has increased results with IBD. It isn’t a very specific test.

Not sure if any of this is helpful but, I think it’s best to let your mind be at ease until you speak with you doc. Jot down your questions. Maybe, I have given you some ideas of what to ask about as it might relate to your own situation. Best of luck.

D🏃🏽‍♀️

[Nvrenfhorses2 in reply to DRunnerchick]

Thank you D for your reply. My gastroenterologist ordered it along with ultrasound of abdomen, and recommended follow up with cardiologist. I don’t have stomach/bowel issues per say. I thought they were possibly gallbladder attacks, but GI Dr didn’t think so. The episodes I described above almost sent me to the ER, pain lasted over 9 hrs. Fortunately I have a follow up with my cardiologist Monday. Wish I had the chest CT scan she had ordered last year but I just had a bone scan to diagnose my arthritis and I was scared of all the radiation.

My rheumatologist diagnose me with UCTD, leaning towards lupus, so hearing this blood test result may be related to a condition I already have makes me happy! Thank you kindly for your sage advice! You’ve put my mind at ease.

[DRunnerchick in reply to Nvrenfhorses2]

There are a lot of false positives with this test, especially with rheumatoid disease. The reason I asked about PPI (or antacids) is they can also elevate this test if not discontinued a week in advance. Sometime a hard workout (such as, like for me, if I did a 10K race or half marathon at this point- and did not die 😂) and it was enough to produce inflammation from muscles, it could elevate the result.

With that said, they do usually use the test as an initial reading when they are looking for something, to steer them in a direction. Sometimes it is used as a generic inflammatory treatment measure to see if it is working.

So, since you can’t read your cardiologist’s mind and don’t know these results. Just chill until then. You might get the best news ever. Next time they want to order a CT, and you are afraid of the radiation, ask questions. Would an MRI work as well (if you can have one) If not, what about ultrasound.? If the CT really is necessary, is there a way to limit your exposure? Have a discussion. Steer the boat where you want it to go, but take them as your partner, with their expertise. 🍀🌸✨

D🏃🏽‍♀️

[Nvrenfhorses2 in reply to DRunnerchick]

Thank you so much, I will absolutely ask more questions. My husband gets these things in my head! Like when I had a bullseye rash and I asked Is this Lyme??? No no there’s no Lyme here😩. I really do think it was elevated due to inflammation. Thank you so much, you’re all the best!

[Jmiller623]

Hi Nv. Chromogranin A elevation is caused by A LOT of different things. I’d caution you to not do an internet search. The amount of things you’ll find will keep you up all night. I agree with DR. I’m sure your doctor will be calling to discuss the results with you soon. In the meantime, I hope you’re in a painless state today and can get some rest.

Sending gentle hugs. ❤️xx

[Nvrenfhorses2 in reply to Jmiller623]

Hello Jmiler, too late! Lol... but yes my mind is at ease knowing it may be elevated from my arthritis/lupus symptoms. Phew! Haha thank you so much for all the support!💗