NMP 22 (Urine) Test

Nuclear Matrix Protein Number 22 (NMP 22) indicates the activities of cells pertaining to their mitotic division. It acts as a tumour marker for the detection of bladder cancer. NMP 22 is a method of cancer detection approved by the FDA and CE. It is known as “NMP 22 bladder check” on commercial grounds. The process is convenient and quick because results can be obtained within the first 30 minutes of the test. The process is a collaboration of diagnosis, screening and treatment of bladder cancer by undertaking the necessary precautions along with uniform diagnostic procedures.

There are a few basic precautions that need to be revised before the patient is made ready for the Nuclear Matrix Protein Number 22 test. It is advised that patients, who under recent conditions, have had an overall cystectomy or patients who have been through an invasive procedure within the last five days should not be undergoing an NMP 22 testing procedure. An “invasive procedure” can be either the catheterization of the urethra or a cystoscopy. A control on the diet is not required. However, one should seek advice from the lab about the same to get more accurate results.

Testing of urine samples using the NMP22 testing technique reveals the status of the tumours in the bladder, if any. The technique is again used to detect the presence of any residual or recurring tumours. NMP22 has managed to slip in as an effective substitute for urine cytology. It gives high precision and provides specificity in case of recurring bladder tumours. The sensitivity of NMP22 test is recorded to be 81.3% which is significantly greater than urine cytology which has a sensitivity of 44%. Thus, NMP22 is another wonder of science contributing majorly towards diagnostic tests for bladder cancers.

A single void of urine is collected at any time between midnight and noon. Immediately after the collection, urine is added to the flask containing NMP22 Urine Stabilizer Vial up to the final line marked. Check whether the colour of the sample is blue/green. Stabilized samples of urine are stored at room temperature for about 96 hours. The sample is then transferred into a freezer to freeze at 2-8°C. Precipitates are separated by the centrifuging the samples for about 10-15 minutes. This helps in extracting the main solution that is devoid of impurities. Invalid NMP22 measurements indicate improper collection and improper stabilization of samples. Thus, it is highly essential to take proper precautions while measuring samples.