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Test Name:

CEA (CARCINOEMBRYONIC ANTIGEN )

Test Code:

2120272

Alias:

Carcinoembryonic Antigen
CEA
LAB57

CPT Code(s):

82378

Preferred Specimen:

1.0 mL serum

Container:

SST (gold)

Alternate Container:

Lithium Heparin (Lt green)

Minimum Volume:

0.3 mL serum

This volume does not allow for repeat testing.

Collection Instructions:

Allow specimen to completely clot (this can take up to 60 minutes). Centrifuge for 15 minutes as soon as the specimen is clotted. If the specimen is collected in a Plain Red (no additive/gel) or an anticoagulant tube, centrifuge and transfer the serum/plasma into a properly labeled transfer tube. Specify specimen type (serum or plasma) on transfer tube.

Transport Temperature:

Refrigerated

Stability:

Refrigerated: 7 days

Frozen: 6 months

Limitations:

In patients receiving therapy with high biotin doses (i.e. > 5 mg/day), no sample should be taken until at least 8 hours after the last biotin administration.

Schedule:

Set up: Daily; Results in 24-48 hours

Method:

Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA)

Clinical Significance:

The measurement of serum CEA has shown substantial benefit in the prognosis and management of patients with malignant diseases, especially colorectal cancer. Serial measurements can be used to monitor patients for progression, regression, or recurrence of cancer following treatment. A persistent elevation of CEA following therapeutic or surgical intervention signals residual disease or recurrence, whereas decreasing levels to within normal range is indicative of successful intervention. CEA is also elevated in the serum of patients with non-malignant diseases and in heavy smokers, therefore CEA should not be used in the diagnosis of cancer or for screening asymptomatic patients.

Use:

Updated 2/28/22

Reference Range Table

Result	Units	Gender	Age	Range
CEA	ng/mL	Both	0 Year - 999 Year	0.0-3.0

The CPT codes included in this publication are in accordance with Current Procedural Terminology, a publication of the American Medical Association. CPT codes are provided here for the convenience of our clients; however, correct coding often varies from one carrier to another, and HealthLab may bill specific carriers using codes other than those shown. Clients who bill for services should verify the code(s) with the applicable payor to confirm that their use is appropriate in each case.

Reference Range Table

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