A stage 3 CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen) level, based on one study, has a mean preoperative value of 23.10 ng/mL, with a range from 0.7 to 2510.0 ng/mL.
While this provides a range, it's crucial to understand the following:
- CEA is not a definitive diagnostic tool: CEA levels can be elevated due to various benign conditions and are not solely indicative of stage 3 cancer.
- Ranges vary: Different laboratories may have different reference ranges.
- Individual Variability: CEA levels vary significantly among individuals with stage 3 cancer. The large range reported (0.7-2510.0 ng/mL) underscores this variability.
- No Statistical Significance: The study cited notes that the differences in mean CEA levels between stages I, II, and III did not reach statistical significance. This suggests that CEA level alone is not a reliable indicator of cancer stage.
- Context is Key: A doctor will consider CEA levels in conjunction with other diagnostic tests (imaging, biopsies, etc.) and the patient's overall clinical picture to make a diagnosis and determine the stage of cancer.
Therefore, a single CEA value cannot definitively diagnose or stage cancer. It's one piece of information that your healthcare provider uses in conjunction with other tests.
