Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) measured by Immunoassay (plasma)
This test measures the level of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), a protein that may be produced by certain types of cancer, including colorectal, pancreatic, and breast cancer. It helps monitor cancer progression or recurrence.
["CEA levels can help track cancer treatment effectiveness and detect possible cancer spread."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 68929-9
- Short code
- CK 19 Pcar-mCnc
- Synonyms
- CK 19 Pcar-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 22
- Ref high
- 198
- Critical range
- — – 10000 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82553
- 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 Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)?
Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a protein found in small amounts in the blood of healthy people. It is produced by certain types of cancer cells, particularly those from the colon, rectum, pancreas, and breast. In some cases, CEA levels can rise when cancer is present or when cancer has returned after treatment.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order a CEA test to monitor cancer treatment, check for cancer spread (metastasis), or evaluate symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or abdominal pain. It’s often used alongside other tests to help diagnose or manage certain cancers.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab where it is analyzed using an immunoassay method to measure CEA levels. This process typically takes a few days to return results.
What Do the Results Mean?
CEA results are interpreted based on your medical history, symptoms, and other test results. Higher than normal levels may suggest cancer or other conditions affecting the liver or lungs. Your doctor will discuss the meaning of your specific results with you.
Reference range
Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
CEA is a tumor marker used primarily in the monitoring of colorectal, pancreatic, and breast cancers. While it can indicate cancer presence, it is not specific to any one type of cancer and may also be elevated in conditions like chronic liver disease, lung disease, or smoking. It is most useful when used alongside other diagnostic tests and clinical findings to guide treatment decisions.
Short name
CEA Plasma
Frequently asked questions
What causes CEA levels to change?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or lifestyle affect CEA levels?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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