Carcinoembryonic Antigen, Fluid
Also known as: CEA FL
Use
The Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) test measures the level of CEA in various types of body fluids such as CSF, pancreatic, pericardial, peritoneal, or pleural fluid. This test is often utilized to aid in the monitoring of certain types of cancers, where CEA levels may correlate with tumor burden. However, CEA levels are also elevated in a variety of benign conditions and therefore should not be used alone to diagnose cancer.
Special Instructions
Specimen source must be provided when submitting the sample. It is important to note that results obtained with different assay methods or kits cannot be used interchangeably. Results, regardless of the level, should not be interpreted as conclusively indicative of the presence or absence of malignant disease.
Limitations
This test has been developed and its performance characteristics determined by ARUP Laboratories. It has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. As a Laboratory Developed Test, it is performed in a CLIA certified laboratory and is intended for clinical purposes. Accuracy can vary, and results should be considered as part of a comprehensive diagnostic work-up.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (ECLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 12515-3
- 31208-2
Result Turnaround Time
0-1 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Body Fluid
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
ARUP Standard Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge to remove cellular material. Transfer 1 mL body fluid to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube.
Causes for Rejection
Specimen types other than those listed. Specimens too viscous to be aspirated by instrument.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 8 hours |
| Refrigerated | 1 week |
| Frozen | 6 months |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant