Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a protein found in many types of cells but associated with tumours and the developing fetus. CEA is tested in blood.
The main use of CEA is as a tumour marker, especially with intestinal cancer. The most common cancers that elevate CEA are in the colon and rectum.
Malignancies with increase levels - most common with bowel cancer
Benign diseases with increased levels in association with Hepatitis, Liver disease and smokers.
Uses FOB to provide a positive result which then leads to colonoscopy.
CEA levels are used to monitor blood levels in patients during diagnosis and throughout treatment.
If levels increase then a new treatment is considered.
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