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CEA
Test CodeCEA
Alias/See Also
Carcino embryonic antigen
Chemistry
Chemistry
Preferred Specimen
Gold Top Tube
Minimum Volume
2 mL
Other Acceptable Specimens
NULL
Transport Temperature
Refrigerate
Specimen Stability
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days
Freeze at -20°C or colder if not tested within 7 days.
Avoid multiple freeze/thaw cycles.
Methodology
Chemiluminescence microparticle immunoassay
Setup Schedule
M-F
Report Available
TAT 1 - 7 days
Reference Range
| Category | Reference range | Units |
| 0 - 5 | ng/mL | |
| Non-smokers | < 2.5 | ng/mL |
| Smokers | < 5.0 | ng/mL |
Clinical Significance
Increased serum CEA levels have been detected in persons with primary colorectal cancer and in patients with other malignancies involving the gastrointestinal tract, breast, lung, ovarian, prostatic, liver, and pancreatic cancers. Elevated serum CEA levels have also been detected in patients with nonmalignant disease, especially patients who are older or who are smokers. CEA levels are not useful in screening the general population for undetected cancers. However, CEA levels provide important information about patient prognosis, recurrence of tumors after surgical removal, and effectiveness of therapy.
Performing Laboratory
Test performed at West Roxbury Chemistry Lab
Contact: Jonathan Dryjowicz-Burek 857-203-5973
Last Updated: November 20, 2025
