CEA Blood Work Lab Test

The carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) test is a blood test that measures the level of CEA in the blood. CEA is a protein that is produced in the fetal gut during development, but normally only small amounts are found in adult blood. Elevated levels of CEA in the blood can be a sign of certain types of cancer or other conditions.

The benefits of getting a CEA test include:

Cancer diagnosis: The CEA test can help detect cancer, particularly colorectal cancer, which often produces high levels of CEA. If CEA levels are elevated, further testing such as imaging or a colonoscopy may be needed to confirm a diagnosis.

Cancer monitoring: If you have been diagnosed with cancer, the CEA test can be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and detect any recurrence of cancer.

Early detection: The CEA test may be used to screen for cancer in people who are at high risk for certain types of cancer, such as colorectal cancer. However, the test is not recommended as a routine screening test for the general population.

Other medical conditions: Elevated CEA levels can also be a sign of other medical conditions, such as liver disease or inflammatory bowel disease, so the test can also be useful in diagnosing and monitoring these conditions.

It is important to note that an elevated CEA level does not always mean that you have cancer, and some people with cancer may not have elevated CEA levels. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results of the CEA test in conjunction with your medical history and other tests to determine the most appropriate course of action.