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Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)
Test CodeCEA
Alias/See Also
Performed at SQL, test code 8599 for facilities not listed below
Performed in Chemistry for BCCH, BGMC, BUMCT, WyMCC
Performed at WyMCC for TCH, WMC, PCMH and WyMCC.
Performed in Chemistry for BCCH, BGMC, BUMCT, WyMCC
Performed at WyMCC for TCH, WMC, PCMH and WyMCC.
CPT Codes
82378
Preferred Specimen
Specimens for testing performed at SQL and WyMCC: SST
For remaining facilities: Green Top Li Hep, Plasma
For remaining facilities: Green Top Li Hep, Plasma
Other Acceptable Specimens
Gold/SST or Red Top
Instructions
For facilities sending to SQL, see link below for specimen details, methodology, setup schedule and reference ranges.
Specimen Stability
Refrigerated 7 days
Setup Schedule
Daily
Clinical Significance
Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a highly glycosylated molecule with a molecular weight of approximately 180 kDa. CEA, like AFP, belongs to the group of carcinofetal antigens that are produced during the embryonic and fetal period. CEA has been postulated to play a role in a number of biological processes including cell adhesion, immunity and apoptosis. Slight to moderate CEA elevations can also occur in non-malignant diseases of the intestine, the pancreas, the liver, and the lungs (i.e. liver cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis, pancreatitis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's Disease). Smoking can also lead to elevated CEA values and needs to be taken into account when interpreting CEA levels. CEA determinations are not recommended for cancer-screening in the general population and CEA concentrations within the normal range do not exclude the possible presence of a malignant disease. The main indication for CEA determinations is the follow-up and therapy-management of colorectal carcinoma.
Additional Information
Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)
