The Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) Test at Pamel Laboratories is a blood test used to measure the level of CEA, a protein that may be elevated in certain types of cancers, particularly colorectal cancer. CEA is typically present at very low levels in healthy adults but can rise significantly in the presence of malignancies or tumor recurrence.
This test is especially useful for monitoring cancer treatment effectiveness, checking for cancer recurrence, and in some cases, assisting with cancer diagnosis and staging.
What the Test Measures:
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The level of CEA protein in the blood
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Functions as a tumor marker primarily for cancers of the colon and rectum, and sometimes the breast, lung, pancreas, or stomach
Purpose of the Test:
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Monitor and manage:
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Colorectal cancer treatment and recurrence
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Other cancers (pancreatic, breast, ovarian, lung, gastric)
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Help in:
Sample Type: Blood sample (serum)
Fasting Required: No
Turnaround Time: 1–2 working days
Interpretation Guide:
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Normal CEA levels: <3 ng/mL (non-smokers); <5 ng/mL (smokers)
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Elevated CEA levels: May indicate active cancer, recurrence, or metastasis
Elevated levels may also be seen in smokers or individuals with benign conditions such as liver disease, peptic ulcers, or inflammatory bowel disease
