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Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)

What is CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen)?

Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) is a type of carcinofetal antigen produced during the embryonic and fetal stages of development. It is primarily found in the fetal gastrointestinal tract and fetal serum. In healthy adults, CEA production is largely suppressed after birth, resulting in very low or undetectable levels in the bloodstream.

CEA in Healthy Adults

In small amounts, CEA may be present in the intestinal, pancreatic, and liver tissues of healthy individuals. However, serum levels in adults are typically very low unless affected by underlying health conditions.

Elevated CEA and Cancer

High levels of CEA are most commonly associated with colorectal adenocarcinoma. It may also be elevated in other malignancies, including:

Medullary thyroid carcinoma

Breast cancer

Cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, lung, ovary, pancreas, and prostate

CEA in Non-Cancerous Conditions

Moderate elevations of CEA can also be found in up to 50% of patients with benign conditions such as:

Liver cirrhosis

Chronic hepatitis

Pancreatitis

Ulcerative colitis

Crohn's disease

Emphysema

Additionally, smokers may have naturally higher CEA levels compared to non-smokers.

Primary Use of CEA Testing

CEA testing is not suitable for cancer screening in the general population. However, it plays a valuable role in:

Monitoring treatment response in colorectal cancer

Detecting potential cancer recurrence

Supporting clinical decisions in the management of other known malignancies

Normal CEA levels do not definitively rule out the presence of cancer, which is why this test is best used in combination with other clinical evaluations.

CEA Testing in Slough and Surrounding Areas

Private CEA blood testing is available in Slough, Windsor, Langley, Burnham, and Maidenhead. This test is a vital tool for patients undergoing treatment or follow-up for colorectal and other cancers. Used alongside imaging and clinical assessments, CEA testing helps guide therapy and track disease progression, ensuring personalised cancer care for individuals across the region.

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