Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)

Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)

CEA is a tumor associated antigen. It is present in embryonic tissues and certain epithelial cancers. CEA was first thought to be specific for digestive tract cancers, however, it may also be elevated in other malignancies and in some nonmalignant diseases. CEA is elevated in those who smoke; infections and bowel diseases, liver disease and non-colorectal cancers. A persistent elevation in circulating CEA following treatment is strongly indication of metastatic or residual disease.

Doctors who wish to order kits, please call our lab directly to set up an account before ordering. 316-684-7784

Process time: 5 to 7 business days

Process method: The methodology is by Microparticle Enzyme Immunoassay (MEIA) technology.

CPT code: 82378

Special instructions: Note whether patient is a smoker

Rejection causes: Gross Hemolysis

Patient prep: None

Specimen volume: 0.5 mL serum

Minimum volume: 0.2 mL

Collection container: SST or red-stopper tube

Transport container: Plastic transport tube

Transport instructions: Refrigerate or freeze

Collection instructions: Click here for PDF

Normal values:

Nonsmoker = 0.0 to 3.0 ng/mL
Smokers = 0.0 to 5.0 ng/mL

Reference one: Krupely, J., Gold, P., Freedman, S.O. Demonstration of Tumor-Specific Antigen of Human Digestive System. J Exp Med 1968;183:387.

Reference two: Hansen, H.J., et al. Solving the Problem of Antibody Interference in Commercial "Sandwich"-Type Immunoassays of CEA. Clin. Chem. 1985;35:146.

Reference three: Martin, E.W., James, K.K., Hurtubise, P.E., et al.The Use of CEA as an Early Indicator for Gastrointestinal Tumor Recurrance and Second-Look Procedures, Cancer, 1977, 39(2):440-6.