CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen) Serum

• Test Name: CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen) Serum Test
• Test Type: Tumor marker test
• Specimen Required: Blood sample (serum)
• Methodology: Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA)
• Purpose: Measures the level of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in the blood, used primarily as a tumor marker for certain types of cancers.

• Cancer Detection: Assists in the detection and monitoring of cancers, particularly colorectal cancer, and other adenocarcinomas.
• Monitoring Treatment: Evaluates the effectiveness of cancer treatment by tracking changes in CEA levels.
• Detection of Recurrence: Helps in early detection of cancer recurrence post-treatment.
• Prognosis Assessment: Provides information about the prognosis in patients with certain cancers, where high levels may indicate a poorer prognosis.
• Screening for Metastasis: Used to screen for the spread of cancer (metastasis) in individuals with a history of cancer.

• Components:
  • Collection of a blood sample from the patient, typically from a vein in the arm.
  • Measurement of CEA levels in the serum using an immunoassay technique.
  • Calibration against standard controls to ensure the accuracy and precision of the test results.
  • Reporting of CEA levels in nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL)
     
• Procedure:
  • The blood sample is drawn and processed to separate the serum.
  • The serum is then analyzed using an immunoassay method to quantify the CEA levels.
  • Results are compared to reference ranges and clinical context for interpretation.

• Normal Findings: Low or undetectable CEA levels, which may indicate no presence of cancer or effective treatment.
• Elevated Levels: High CEA levels can suggest the presence of cancer, recurrence, or metastasis, particularly in colorectal, breast, or lung cancers.
• Trend Analysis: Increasing CEA levels over time may indicate cancer progression, while decreasing levels suggest a positive response to treatment.
• Clinical Correlation: CEA levels should be interpreted alongside other diagnostic tests and clinical findings for accurate assessment.

• Qualitative and Quantitative: Provides a quantitative measurement of CEA levels in the serum.
• Interpretation: Results are interpreted based on reference ranges and patient history, including cancer type, treatment, and other diagnostic results.
• Report: A detailed report includes the measured CEA level and its clinical significance in the context of cancer monitoring.
• Turnaround Time: Typically 1-2 days, depending on the laboratory.

Q. What is the CEA Carcinoembryonic Antigen Serum Test?
This test measures the level of CEA in the blood, which is used primarily to monitor colorectal cancer and other types of cancer
 

Q. Why is the CEA test ordered?
It is ordered to monitor cancer treatment, detect recurrence, and in some cases, help diagnose certain cancers
 

Q. How is the CEA test performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein, and the serum is analyzed in the lab using an immunoassay to measure CEA levels
 

Q. What do elevated CEA levels indicate?
Elevated CEA levels can suggest the presence of cancer, recurrence, or metastasis, particularly in colorectal, lung, or breast cancers
 

Q. Can CEA levels be elevated for reasons other than cancer?
Yes, CEA levels can also be elevated in non-cancerous conditions, such as smoking, inflammation, or liver disease
 

Q. Is the CEA test used alone to diagnose cancer?
No, the CEA test is not used alone for diagnosis. It is typically used in conjunction with other tests and clinical evaluations
 

Q. How often should the CEA test be done?
The frequency of the CEA test depends on the patient’s specific condition and treatment plan, and it is usually determined by the healthcare provider