Preoperative NSE values increased with OSA risk (NSE in ng/ml; mean [range]; low risk: 15.6 [9.2–44.3]; intermediate risk: 21.8 [7.6–114.1]; high risk: 29.2 [10.1–151]; p = 0.039). The gene discussed is ENO2; the disease is obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.