Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA), Pleural Fluid

Casandra

Casandra Test Code MC23237Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab Mayo Clinic LabLab Test ID PFCEACPT Code 82378

Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA), Pleural Fluid

Clinical Use

Use

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) testing in pleural fluid is used as an adjunct to cytology and imaging to differentiate between malignant and nonmalignant causes of pleural effusions. Elevated CEA concentrations in pleural effusions can aid in diagnosing malignancies such as lung, breast, ovarian, gastrointestinal, and colorectal cancers, where CEA is typically secreted. However, malignancies like mesothelioma and lymphoma that do not secrete CEA show levels comparable to nonmalignant effusions. It is crucial to correlate CEA levels with cytological and imaging findings since CEA is not exclusive for malignancy diagnosis.

Special Instructions

If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send an Oncology Test Request (T729) with the specimen. Testing is performed Monday through Saturday, and reports are available 1 to 3 days after receipt of the sample.

Limitations

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) testing has limited diagnostic utility when used as the sole test for malignancy, as it is not specific to malignant conditions. Elevated CEA levels can also occur in certain nonmalignant conditions, such as liver cirrhosis, pancreatitis, and tuberculosis, which can complicate diagnosis. Some malignancies do not secrete CEA, leading to lower or non-detectable CEA levels in pleural effusions; therefore, negative results should be cautiously interpreted. The presence of human anti-mouse antibodies or other heterophile antibodies can potentially interfere with assay results, necessitating careful correlation with clinical findings.

Test Details

New York Approved