Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA), Spinal Fluid
Use
The Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) test is useful in detecting meningeal carcinomatosis and intradural or extradural infiltration. It helps differentiate brain parenchymal metastasis from adenocarcinoma or squamous-cell carcinoma. CEA is normally present in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in very low concentrations, and elevations in serum CEA can cause passive transfer to CSF. Tumors of the brain, especially metastatic tumors, can elevate CSF CEA.
Special Instructions
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send an Oncology Test Request (T729) with the specimen.
Limitations
Although the assay appears to be specific for adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, increased carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) values in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are not seen in all patients with such tumors of the brain. Mildly elevated CEA values in CSF may be secondary to passive transfer from the serum in individuals with high serum CEA concentrations. In rare cases, some individuals can develop antibodies to mouse or other animal antibodies (often referred to as human anti-mouse antibodies [HAMA] or heterophile antibodies), which may cause interference in some immunoassays.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (CLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 2037-0
- 2037-0
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Cerebrospinal Fluid
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.4 mL
Container
Sterile vial, 13 x 75-mm tube
Collection Instructions
Submit specimen from collection vial number 1.
Causes for Rejection
No specimen should be rejected
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 90 days |