Since it is produced in large amounts by some tumors, it can be used to monitor cancer treatment.
CEA levels may be high in connection with a number of conditions.
When levels of CEA decrease, it may indicate that a cancer is responding to treatment.
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Uses/Indications
Your healthcare provider may test CEA levels in a number of circumstances, including the following.
This is one reason why it’s not an effective screening test.
For example, CEA levels may be very high during and after chemotherapy.
Ascancer cellsdie, CEA is released into the bloodstream.
Levels can remain elevated for a few weeks after treatment, even if a tumor is responding well.
The Test
The CEA test may be done in the hospital or in a clinic.
The description below refers to having the test done in the most common way: through a blood test.
Before the Test
There are no diet or activity restrictions prior to having the CEA test.
You will usually be required to have your insurance card.
You may feel a sharp sting as the needle is introduced into the vein, then some slight pressure.
After the sample is obtained, the needle is removed and a bandage is placed over the puncture site.
Some people may feel lightheaded or faint when having their blood drawn.
After the Test
The sample will be sent to the laboratory for analysis.
The test should be repeated if it is abnormal to verify the result.
CEA levels are most helpful when repeated over time to observe how they change.
As a result, “serial testing” gives more information than a single test.
Causes of a High CEA Level
Certainly, there are many exceptions to this general rule.
As noted, CEA is often most useful when repeated over time.
The amount of time between tests, however, can vary based on many factors.
2017;24(5):1165-1173. doi:10.1245/s10434-016-5717-y
U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Wiley Blackwell, 2017.
