carcinoembryonic antigen
Pronunciation: kar-sin-oh-em-bree-ON-ik AN-ti-jen
A glycoprotein tumor marker elevated in various gastrointestinal malignancies, particularly colorectal cancer.
Full Definition
Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a glycoprotein normally produced during fetal development but found in elevated levels in adults with certain cancers, particularly colorectal adenocarcinoma. While not specific enough for diagnostic purposes due to elevation in benign conditions and other malignancies, CEA is valuable for monitoring treatment response and detecting recurrence in established colorectal cancer patients. Serial measurements provide more clinically useful information than single values, with rising trends often indicating disease progression.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as CEA in clinical practice.
In Context
- "The patient's carcinoembryonic antigen level decreased from 45 to 8 ng/mL following completion of adjuvant therapy." — Laboratory report
- "Serial carcinoembryonic antigen monitoring revealed a doubling pattern concerning for disease recurrence." — Oncology consultation