Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) in Serum/Plasma
This test measures the levels of carcinoembryonic antigen, a protein that may be produced by certain types of cancer and some noncancerous conditions.
["CEA helps monitor cancer progression or treatment response in some cases."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 69116-2
- Short code
- CT Sacrum+Coccyx
- Synonyms
- CT Sacrum+Coccyx
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct
- 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 cells in the digestive tract and can also be released into the bloodstream when cancer cells grow and spread. CEA is often used as a tumor marker for certain cancers, such as colorectal, pancreatic, and lung cancers, though it can also appear in other conditions like chronic inflammation or smoking.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order a CEA test to check for cancer if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or changes in bowel habits. It may also be used during cancer treatment to monitor how the disease is responding or after treatment to see if it has returned. In some cases, CEA testing is done as part of a screening program for people at higher risk of certain cancers.
How Is the Test Done?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis. The test measures the amount of CEA protein in your blood, which can help determine if cancer is present or if it has spread.
What Do the Results Mean?
CEA levels can vary widely depending on health conditions, treatments, and other factors. Higher than normal levels may suggest the presence of cancer or other health issues, but they are not definitive on their own. Your doctor will consider your medical history, symptoms, and other test results when interpreting the results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
CEA Blood Test
Frequently asked questions
What are the normal results for this test?
Can CEA levels change over time?
Does 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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy