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Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) with Plasma Specimen

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the level of carcinoembryonic antigen, a protein that may be produced by certain types of cancer cells, including colorectal, pancreatic, and breast cancers. It helps doctors monitor these conditions and track treatment progress.

Quick summary

["CEA levels can indicate cancer presence or spread and guide treatment decisions."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
68926-5
Short code
CA724PF
Synonyms
Cancer Ag72-4 Pcar-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Sterile, leak-proof container without anticoagulants for pericardial fluid; SST or red-top tube for serum
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
6
Critical range
0.5 N/A – —
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–99 years
Method
Immunoassay (Electrochemiluminescence or Chemiluminescent)
CPT
86316
SNOMED
395787009
Specimen volume
1-2 mL of pericardial fluid or 1 mL of serum
Stability
Pericardial fluid: Refrigerated (2-8°C) for up to 7 days; Frozen (-20°C) for up to 6 months. Serum: Room temperature 8 hours, refrigerated 7 days, frozen 6 months.
Hemolysis max
100
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
50
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What Is Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)?

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a protein found in small amounts in healthy people but can rise in people with certain cancers. It is often used as a tumor marker to help diagnose, monitor, or track treatment of cancers like colorectal, pancreatic, or breast cancer. CEA is not specific to any single type of cancer, so it is typically used alongside other tests and clinical findings.

Why Might This Test Be Ordered?

Your doctor may order a CEA test if you have a history of cancer, are at higher risk for certain cancers, or are undergoing treatment for one. It may also be used to check for cancer recurrence or response to treatment. In some cases, it can help monitor conditions like inflammatory bowel disease.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab where it is processed to separate plasma. The plasma is analyzed for CEA levels using an immunoassay method, which detects the protein in your blood.

What Do My Results Mean?

Results are reported in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). Higher than expected levels may suggest cancer or other conditions, but they are not definitive on their own. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your medical history, symptoms, and other tests.

Reference range

No established reference range for pericardial fluid. Serum reference: <6.0 U/mL (typically considered normal cutoff in serum). Elevated levels in pericardial fluid may suggest malignant pericardial effusion, particularly from gastric, ovarian, colorectal, or pancreatic origin.N/A

Specimen: serum

No fasting required. Pericardial fluid is collected via pericardiocentesis by a qualified physician under sterile conditions, typically with echocardiographic guidance.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance:

Short name

Plasma CEA

Frequently asked questions

How often will I need this test?
CEA testing frequency depends on your medical condition and treatment plan. For people with cancer, tests may be done regularly to monitor disease progression or response to treatment. For those at risk or with other conditions, your doctor will determine the appropriate schedule.
What are the typical reference ranges?
There is no single reference range for CEA because levels vary widely among individuals. Reference ranges are often set based on age, sex, and health status. Your doctor will use your specific results in relation to your overall health and medical history.
Can lifestyle changes affect CEA levels?
Yes, lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, smoking, and weight can influence CEA levels. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle may help keep levels within a more typical range, but it does not replace medical monitoring for cancer or other conditions.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy