Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) (Serial Monitor)
Use
The Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) test is primarily used for long-term serial monitoring of patients with certain types of cancer. CEA is a protein that may be higher in individuals with cancer, and this test helps track changes in CEA levels over time, aiding in the management and treatment adjustments for patients under therapy. The test is not used for initial cancer diagnosis but is valuable for assessing how well cancer treatments are working and for checking if cancer has returned after treatment.
Special Instructions
The account must submit the patient's Social Security number to enable monitoring. It is crucial to use only one assay method consistently for serial monitoring to ensure reliable data across testing intervals. Patients consuming high doses of biotin (vitamin B7/B8) should suspend intake at least 72 hours before sample collection to avoid interference. For testing without the serial monitor service, reference test 002139.
Limitations
CEA results obtained through different assay methods or kits should not be used interchangeably in serial testing. The results cannot be interpreted as definitive evidence of the presence or absence of malignant disease, and the test is not recommended as a stand-alone diagnostic tool for cancer. Biotin supplementation may interfere with test results, necessitating caution in patient preparation.
Methodology
Immunoassay (ECLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 2039-6
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.7 mL
Container
Gel-barrier tube (preferred) or red-top tube
Collection Instructions
If a red-top tube is used, transfer separated serum to a plastic transport tube.
Patient Preparation
Patients should be cautioned to stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection of a sample.
Storage Instructions
Room temperature