Examinations
Examinations
Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a tumor marker associated with malignant tumors and metastases. It is synthesized in the digestive system tissues of the embryo and fetus. One of its key molecular characteristics is its high carbohydrate content (up to 60%).
After birth, CEA synthesis stops, and under normal conditions, it is not present in the blood of healthy individuals or pregnant women. Only very small amounts can be found in the intestinal, liver, and pancreatic tissues. However, CEA levels increase significantly in the presence of a tumor.
- Sample: Blood drawn from a vein.
- Fasting is required for at least 4 hours before the test.
- Early cancer screening in high-risk individuals.
- Monitoring disease progression and assessing treatment effectiveness.
- Diagnosis of medullary thyroid carcinoma (C-cell carcinoma).
Causes of Increased CEA Levels
Oncological Conditions (Cancer-Related CEA Elevation):
- Colorectal cancer
- Lung cancer
- Breast cancer
- Liver and bone metastases
- Prostate and ovarian metastases
Non-Cancerous Conditions (CEA Elevation in Somatic Pathologies):
- Liver cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis
- Colorectal polyps
- Ulcerative colitis
- Pancreatitis
- Tuberculosis
- Pneumonia
- Cystic fibrosis
- Kidney failure
- Crohn’s disease
- Autoimmune diseases
- Smoking