CARCINOEMBRYONIC ANTIGEN (B)

Message
SEND OUT/BOSTON


Test Code
CEA


Alias/See Also
CEA


Preferred Specimen
SERUM: GOLD TOP TUBE


Minimum Volume
2 MLS


Instructions
DRAW 1 GOLD TOP SST TUBE, CLOT AND SPIN DOWN AND SEND TO LAB REFRIGERATED.


Transport Container
ORIGINAL TUBE


Transport Temperature
REFRIGERATED


Specimen Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours. Separate if not tested within this time.
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days
Freeze at -20°C or colder if not tested within 7 days.


Methodology
Chemiluminescence microparticle immunoassay

Setup Schedule
M-F


Report Available
1-7 DAYS


Reference Range

Reference range: 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

Additional Information
CEA


The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.