-
DE
Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) – Tumor Marker
Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a blood tumor marker used to monitor the progression and treatment of certain cancers.
Add as Preferred SourceThings worth knowing about "Carcinoembryonic Antigen"
Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a blood tumor marker used to monitor the progression and treatment of certain cancers.
What is Carcinoembryonic Antigen?
Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a glycoprotein – a protein molecule with sugar components – that is primarily produced during embryonic development. In healthy adults, it is present in the blood only at very low levels. An elevated CEA level in the blood may indicate certain cancers, but can also be associated with non-cancerous conditions.
Medical Significance
CEA belongs to a group of laboratory values known as tumor markers and is used primarily in oncology – the medical specialty dealing with cancer. It is not typically used to diagnose cancer in the first place, but rather to monitor disease progression and assess the effectiveness of treatment in patients who have already been diagnosed with a tumor.
Clinical Applications
CEA levels are commonly measured in the following conditions:
- Colorectal cancer (colon and rectal cancer): This is the primary indication. CEA is measured before surgery to establish a baseline value and is then monitored regularly after therapy to detect a relapse at an early stage.
- Stomach cancer
- Lung cancer
- Breast cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Thyroid cancer (medullary carcinoma)
Diagnosis: How Is CEA Measured?
The CEA level is determined from a simple blood sample (serum sample). The measurement is performed using immunological laboratory methods. Normal values are typically below 3 ng/mL (nanograms per milliliter) in non-smokers and below 5 ng/mL in smokers, though exact reference ranges may vary slightly between laboratories.
Causes of Elevated CEA Levels
An elevated CEA level is not necessarily a sign of cancer. The following factors can increase the value:
- Malignant tumors: Colorectal cancer, stomach cancer, lung cancer, and other carcinomas
- Non-cancerous conditions: Liver inflammation (hepatitis), liver cirrhosis, inflammatory bowel diseases (e.g., Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis), pancreatitis
- Smoking: Nicotine consumption can slightly elevate CEA levels
- Benign bowel polyps
Limitations of the CEA Test
CEA is not an ideal tumor marker for early detection of cancer, as it is often within the normal range in early tumor stages and can also be elevated due to benign conditions. For this reason, CEA is not recommended as a screening test in healthy individuals. The greatest clinical value of CEA lies in post-treatment follow-up – monitoring patients after cancer therapy to detect a recurrence of the disease or the formation of secondary tumors (metastases) at an early stage.
References
- Duffy MJ. - Carcinoembryonic antigen as a marker for colorectal cancer: is it clinically useful? - Clinical Chemistry, 47(4):624-630, 2001.
- Leitlinienprogramm Onkologie (German Cancer Society, AWMF) - S3 Guideline Colorectal Carcinoma, Version 2.1, 2019.
- Sturgeon CM et al. - Use of tumour markers in clinical practice - EGTM recommendations - European Journal of Cancer, 2010.
Building Blocks for a Healthy Life
As an integrated manufacturer, we develop & produce evidence-based, patented, and non-patented formulations. We work exclusively with plant and natural extracts according to the strictest purity & quality standards.
The combination of science & modern technology with the laws of nature creates solutions consistently tailored to humans – for the highest good: health.
Skip product gallery
Subscription available
Floral
For Healthy Oral Flora & Dental Care
Formulated lozenges with Dentalac®, lactic acid bacteria, and Lactoferrin CLN®30 lozenges
Regular price:
22,90 €
Discount
Subscription available
Lactoferrin 60 Capsules
For your universal protection
As one of the most valuable proteins in the body, lactoferrin is a natural component of the immune system.
60 Capsules
Sale price:
50,00 €
Regular price:
59,90 €
Discount
Subscription available
Multivitamin Mineral Complex
Daily basic supply: the complete spectrum of micronutrients
Natural multivitamin complex for the immune system, energy, and central body functions
30 Capsules
Sale price:
27,90 €
Regular price:
29,90 €
Subscription available
Natural Iron
For your iron balance
Specially formulated for your iron balance with plant-based curry leaf iron, Lactoferrin CLN®, and natural Vitamin C from rose hips.
30 Capsules
Regular price:
35,90 €
Most read entries
3 Posts in this encyclopedia categoryMagnesiumcarbonat
Magnesiumcarbonat ist eine anorganische Magnesiumverbindung mit säure-neutralisierender (antazidischer) Wirkung. Erfahre mehr über Vorteile, Einsatzgebiete und Unterschiede zu besser resorbierbaren Magnesiumformen.
Calorie content
The choice of food influences our energy intake. The calorie content varies greatly - some provide little energy, others a lot.
Cologne list
The Cologne List ® is an important initiative in competitive sports that offers athletes guidance in the selection of nutritional supplements.