Carcinoembryonic antigen blood test
Normal Reference Range
<5 µg/L
Test Information
Although CEA was formerly thought to only be elevated in digestive tract malignancies, it can also be elevated in some non-cancerous diseases and other tumours. Testing for CEA may be very advantageous for patients being watched for colorectal, stomach, breast, lung, prostatic, pancreatic, or ovarian cancer. In benign conditions, such as uremic colitis, cirrhosis, pancreatitis, and heavy smokers, a high CEA may be observed.
Clinical Indications
An increase in CEA after therapy is very symptomatic of a hidden metastatic and/or recurrent illness.
Sample Required
5mL serum sample tube is required for CEA blood test
Min. sample volume
1.0mL
Special Instructions and Precautions
Not applicable
Time Limits For Retrospective Testing
5 days
Any factors affecting the test
Not applicable
Turnaround Time
6 hours
Referral centre (if applicable)
Not applicable
Test Code
CEA