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Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) Antibody, Serum/Plasma — Qualitative

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A qualitative blood test that detects antibodies directed against carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), a protein associated with some tumors.

Quick summary

["This test detects CEA antibodies in blood and is not the same as the standard quantitative CEA tumor-marker test."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
101070-1
Short code
CEAG Ab SerPl Ql
Synonyms
CEAG Ab SerPl Ql
Category
tumor-marker
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
5
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82378
SNOMED
394995008
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This qualitative test checks serum or plasma for antibodies directed against carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). CEA is a protein that can be produced by certain cells, including some tumor cells.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be ordered in selected situations to evaluate an immune response to CEA. It is less common than the quantitative CEA antigen test and is usually interpreted as part of a broader evaluation.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, separated into serum or plasma as appropriate, and examined using laboratory methods to determine whether CEA antibodies are detectable. The result is generally reported as positive, negative, or sometimes indeterminate.

How do I prepare for the test?

Special preparation is usually not required for a qualitative CEA antibody test. Follow the laboratory's instructions and tell the clinician if you have a recent infection, autoimmune condition, or other immune-related illness.

Reference range

Non-smokers: <2.5 ng/mL; Smokers: <5.0 ng/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. For PSA, avoid sexual activity for 24-48 hours before the test.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Qualitative CEA antibody

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a routine CEA tumor-marker test?
No. A routine CEA test measures the amount of CEA antigen in blood, while this test detects antibodies directed against CEA.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means CEA antibodies were detected. This can reflect an immune response and must be interpreted with your medical history and other test results.
Does a negative result rule out cancer?
No. CEA antibodies are not a standard stand-alone cancer screening or diagnostic test, so a negative result cannot rule out cancer or other illness.
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy