CEA

Understanding Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) in Your Lab Results

Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) is a protein that can be found in the blood and is often used as a biomarker in medical tests. It is primarily used to monitor certain types of cancers, but it can also be elevated in non-cancerous conditions. Understanding your CEA levels can provide valuable insights into your health, especially if you are undergoing cancer treatment or monitoring.

What is CEA?

CEA is a type of protein that is normally present at very low levels in the blood of healthy adults. It was first identified in the 1960s and is most commonly associated with colorectal cancer. However, elevated CEA levels can also be found in other types of cancers, such as breast, lung, pancreatic, and ovarian cancers. In addition to cancer, CEA levels can be elevated due to non-cancerous conditions like inflammation, infection, liver disease, and smoking.

Factors Influencing CEA Levels

Several lifestyle and nutritional factors can influence CEA levels. Smoking is one of the most significant factors, as smokers tend to have higher baseline CEA levels compared to non-smokers. Additionally, certain dietary habits, such as high consumption of alcohol and fatty foods, may also impact CEA levels. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can help keep CEA levels within a normal range.

Medical Conditions Associated with Abnormal CEA Levels

While CEA is not used as a primary diagnostic tool for cancer, it is valuable in monitoring the treatment and progression of certain cancers. Elevated CEA levels can indicate the presence of cancer or a recurrence in patients who have been previously treated. However, it is important to note that not all cancers will cause an increase in CEA, and elevated levels do not always mean cancer is present. Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, and liver cirrhosis can also cause elevated CEA levels.

Normal Ranges for CEA

The normal range for CEA levels can vary slightly depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. Generally, a CEA level of less than 3 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) is considered normal for non-smokers, while levels up to 5 ng/mL may be acceptable for smokers. It is crucial to discuss your specific results with your healthcare provider, as they can interpret your CEA levels in the context of your overall health and medical history.

Understanding your CEA levels can be an important part of managing your health, especially if you are at risk for or are being treated for cancer. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to understand what your lab results mean for you.