The Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) test is used to measure the concentration of CEA in the blood.

CEA is a glycoprotein secreted by both normal and cancerous cells. Initially identified in 1968 from liver cells related to colorectal cancer and foetal digestive cells, CEA is naturally high at birth and declines as a person ages. However, elevated CEA levels can indicate certain medical conditions, particularly cancer.

CEA testing is most commonly performed on blood samples, but in rare instances, it may also involve fluid samples from the spine, chest, or abdomen. For cancer patients, especially those with colorectal cancer, CEA testing aids in tracking treatment effectiveness, monitoring for relapses, and detecting cancer recurrence.

It is also valuable for assessing cancers of the breast, lungs, ovaries, bladder, and thyroid. Typically, CEA levels are evaluated alongside imaging scans, physical examinations, and other tests for a more complete understanding of a patient’s health status.

Keep the following in mind before booking a Carcinoembryonic Antigen test in Pune:

• Prerequisites

There is no need to fast before a Carcinoembryonic Antigen test.

• Best Time to Get Tested

The test can be done at any time during the day.

• Who Should Get This Test

Individuals with certain cancers, especially colorectal cancer, should get this test to track treatment effectiveness, watch for relapses, and detect recurrences.

• Cautions Before Taking This Test

No special preparations are required, but it’s always best to consult with your doctor before the test.

Note : For consistency in results, this test should be conducted at the same lab as test results are highly dependent on the machine and methodology used.

The CEA test is useful in diagnosing cancer when combined with other tests and provides valuable insights for those already diagnosed. However, it is not relied upon solely for cancer diagnosis. The test is typically used for:

• Detecting cancer spread : It helps identify whether cancer has grown or spread to other areas in your body.

• Assessing treatment effectiveness : It shows how well your cancer treatment is working.

This test may be conducted at different stages, including:

• After diagnosis : To assist your doctor in determining the best treatment plan.

• During treatment : To monitor the effectiveness of treatments such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation.

• After treatment completion : To check if the cancer has recurred.

• Before treatment or surgery : Regular follow-up testing is often performed every one to three months during active treatment.

An increase in CEA levels within four to six weeks after starting treatment does not always indicate treatment failure. If you're in remission, your doctor may recommend regular CEA tests to detect any signs of recurrence. They will determine how often these tests should be done.