carcinoembryonic antigen
Also written as: CEA — Carcinoembryonic Antigen
Tumor marker protein elevated in various cancers, particularly colorectal cancer, used for monitoring treatment response and detecting recurrence.
Full Definition
Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a glycoprotein normally produced during fetal development that becomes elevated in various malignancies, most notably colorectal cancer. CEA levels are primarily used for monitoring treatment response and detecting cancer recurrence rather than initial diagnosis, as elevated levels can also occur in benign conditions and smoking. In colorectal cancer management, CEA measurements are obtained preoperatively for staging purposes and postoperatively at regular intervals during surveillance. Rising CEA levels often precede clinical evidence of recurrence, making it a valuable tool for early detection of metastatic disease.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as CEA; specify normal reference ranges.
In Context
- "Preoperative carcinoembryonic antigen level was markedly elevated at 45 ng/mL, suggesting advanced disease." — laboratory results interpretation
- "Serial carcinoembryonic antigen monitoring detected early recurrence before radiological evidence appeared." — surveillance strategy