What are the other Names for this Test? (Equivalent Terms)

• SMRP Blood Test 

What is Soluble Mesothelin-Related Peptides Blood Test? (Background Information)

• Soluble mesothelin-related peptides (SMRP) are breakdown products of the membrane proteins of mesothelial cells. They indicate mesothelial cell damage
• Mesothelial cells line body cavities and internal organs. They are present in the peritoneal cavity of the abdomen, the pericardial cavity of the heart, and the pleural cavity of the lungs
• Mesothelial cells maintain these structures by producing the fluid that lubricates and nourishes them. They also assist in other ways. Damage to these cells may affect the health of these important body structures
• Mesothelial cells may be damaged after inhalation of harmful agents, such as asbestos. This can cause mesothelioma, or cancer of the mesothelial cells. When mesothelial cells are damaged, the proteins on their surfaces degrade and enter into blood circulation. These proteins are then called soluble mesothelin-related peptides (SMRPs)
• The Soluble Mesothelin-Related Peptides Blood Test is a test to measure the levels of SMRP in blood. It is used as a biomarker for mesothelial cell damage and mesothelioma

What are the Clinical Indications for performing the Soluble Mesothelin-Related Peptides Blood Test?

Following are the clinical indications for performing a Soluble Mesothelin-Related Peptides Blood Test:

• As a follow-up to a lung biopsy
• Chest pain
• Painful cough
• Shortness of breath
• Unexplained weight loss
• Chest lumps 

How is the Specimen Collected for Soluble Mesothelin-Related Peptides Blood Test?

Following is the specimen collection process for Soluble Mesothelin-Related Peptides Blood Test:

Sample required: Blood

Process: Insertion of a needle into an arm vein.

Preparation required: No special preparation is needed prior to the test. 

What is the Significance of the Soluble Mesothelin-Related Peptides Blood Test Result?

• High levels of soluble mesothelin-related peptides may indicate mesothelial cell damage or mesothelioma 

The laboratory test results are NOT to be interpreted as results of a "stand-alone" test. The test results have to be interpreted after correlating with suitable clinical findings and additional supplemental tests/information. Your healthcare providers will explain the meaning of your tests results, based on the overall clinical scenario. 

Additional and Relevant Useful Information:

• Asbestos is a major cause of mesothelial cell damage and mesothelioma. Generally, it is used in the construction and fireproofing industry. Consequently, workers in these industries often suffer from mesothelial cell damage
• It may take anywhere between 20-50 years after an individual is exposed to asbestos, to develop mesothelioma
• Pleural mesothelioma accounts for 90% of all cases of mesothelioma
• Levels of SMRP are thought to correlate with the severity of mesothelioma.
• Certain conditions interfere with the results of the Soluble Mesothelin-Related Peptides Blood Test. These include certain cancers (beside mesothelioma) that produce compounds that may be mistaken for SMRPs 

Certain medications that you may be currently taking may influence the outcome of the test. Hence, it is important to inform your healthcare provider, the complete list of medications (including any herbal supplements) you are currently taking. This will help the healthcare provider interpret your test results more accurately and avoid unnecessary chances of a misdiagnosis.