Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA), Pancreatic Cyst Fluid
Use
The Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) test for pancreatic cyst fluid is useful in conjunction with imaging studies, cytology, and other tumor markers for distinguishing between mucinous and nonmucinous pancreatic cysts. It helps in determining the likely type of malignant pancreatic cyst. High concentrations of CEA in cyst fluid, particularly levels greater than or equal to 200 ng/mL, are very suggestive of mucinous cysts, which may carry a higher risk of malignancy. Although beneficial for assessing mucinous cyst potential, CEA testing alone does not reliably distinguish between benign, premalignant, or malignant mucinous cysts.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
CEA concentrations of 200 ng/mL and above are highly indicative of mucinous cysts, but this is not definitive for malignancy. The test cannot distinguish between malignant and nonmalignant mucinous cysts. False results may occur in rare cases where individuals develop antibodies to mouse or other animal antibodies (HAMA) which can interfere with the assay. CEA test results should be interpreted in conjunction with imaging studies, cytology, and other clinical findings. The test's sensitivity for mucinous lesions is approximately 62% and specificity is approximately 93% at the aforementioned concentration threshold.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Immunoenzymatic Assay)
Biomarkers
Carcinoembryonic Antigen
Analyte
LOINC Codes
- 97747-0 - CEA Aspirate-mCnc
- 97747-0 - CEA Aspirate-mCnc
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Other
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Plain, plastic, screw-top tube
Causes for Rejection
Hemolysis >5000 mg/dL
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 24 hours |
| Refrigerated | 72 hours |
| Frozen | 90 days |