VEGF, Serum – Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor
What is VEGF?
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) is a family of proteins—most notably VEGF-A—that play a central role in stimulating the growth of new blood vessels, a process known as angiogenesis. VEGF is essential for normal physiological functions such as wound healing and the menstrual cycle, and it also contributes to disease processes including cancer, diabetic complications, and inflammatory disorders.
Why is VEGF measured in serum?
Measuring VEGF levels in the blood can help assess abnormal blood vessel growth and inflammation. This test is primarily used in clinical research and specialized medical settings to evaluate conditions where angiogenesis is either excessive or impaired. It is important to note that serum VEGF levels can be influenced by the release of VEGF from platelets during blood clotting. For this reason, some laboratories may prefer plasma measurements for research purposes to obtain more accurate readings.
What do high VEGF levels mean?
Elevated VEGF levels in serum may indicate:
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Cancer or tumor growth (such as breast, colon, or kidney cancers), where VEGF enables tumors to develop their own blood supply and potentially spread
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Autoimmune or inflammatory diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), where abnormal vessel growth and increased vascular permeability are common
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Diabetic complications, including retinopathy and nephropathy
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Chronic wounds or impaired tissue healing
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Preeclampsia during pregnancy
What do low VEGF levels mean?
Lower-than-normal VEGF levels may suggest:
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Impaired blood vessel formation, which can affect healing and tissue regeneration
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Poor circulation or compromised tissue repair
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Certain cardiovascular or neurodegenerative conditions, though low VEGF is less commonly used as a clinical marker
Clinical relevance and therapeutic context
VEGF testing is not part of routine health screening but is reserved for specific clinical or investigational purposes. VEGF levels can be affected by inflammation, low oxygen levels (hypoxia), and certain medications. Notably, anti-VEGF therapies—such as bevacizumab—are used in the treatment of cancers and some eye diseases to inhibit abnormal blood vessel growth. In oncology, VEGF measurements may help monitor disease progression or response to anti-angiogenic treatments.
How to prepare for the test
No special preparation is usually required for a VEGF serum test. However, your healthcare provider may advise you to avoid certain medications or supplements before the test to ensure accurate results.
Summary
VEGF is a key regulator of blood vessel growth, with important roles in both health and disease. Serum VEGF measurement can provide valuable insights in select clinical situations, particularly when abnormal angiogenesis is suspected. For more precise interpretation, discuss your results with a healthcare professional familiar with your medical history and current condition.
What does it mean if your VEGF, Serum result is too high?
Elevated VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) levels in serum typically indicate increased blood vessel formation or an ongoing response to tissue stress, injury, or disease. While VEGF plays a normal role in healing and growth, persistently high levels can point to underlying medical conditions.
Common Causes of Elevated VEGF Levels:
1. Cancer and Tumor Growth
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Many tumors secrete VEGF to promote the growth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), which supply the tumor with oxygen and nutrients.
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Elevated VEGF can be seen in cancers such as:
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Colorectal cancer
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Breast cancer
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Non-small cell lung cancer
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Renal cell carcinoma
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Glioblastoma
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2. Chronic Inflammation and Autoimmune Disorders
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Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can stimulate VEGF production as part of the inflammatory response.
3. Diabetic Complications
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People with diabetic retinopathy or diabetic nephropathy often have elevated VEGF, as the body tries to restore blood supply to oxygen-deprived tissues.
4. Preeclampsia (in pregnancy)
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High VEGF levels may be associated with abnormal placental development and vascular dysfunction.
5. Chronic Wound Healing or Tissue Hypoxia
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When tissues are damaged or deprived of oxygen (hypoxia), the body releases VEGF to help repair and restore blood supply.
6. Peripheral Artery Disease or Ischemia
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The body increases VEGF to try to compensate for reduced blood flow in blocked or narrowed arteries.
Summary:
Elevated VEGF is a signal of increased angiogenic activity, which may reflect a response to tissue damage, low oxygen levels, inflammation, or tumor-driven blood vessel growth. Its interpretation depends heavily on clinical context and is usually used alongside other diagnostic tools.
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