CarcinoEmbryonic Ag (CEA)

Code

1005

Principle

The measurement of serum CEA has shown substantial benefit in the prognosis and management of patients with malignant diseases, especially colorectal cancer. Serial measurements can be used to monitor patients for progression, regression or recurrence of cancer following treatment. A persistent elevation of CEA following therapeutic or surgical intervention signals residual disease or recurrence, whereas decreasing levels to within the normal range is indicative of successful intervention.

Preanalytical

1 mL Serum Refrigerated

Turn Around Time

1 day

Methodology

Chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA)

Limitations

Patients who have been regularly exposed to animals or have received immunotherapy or diagnostic procedures utilizing immunoglobulins or immunoglobulin fragments may produce antibodies, e.g. HAMA, that interfere with immunoassays.