What cancers are high in CEA?
Several types of cancer are commonly associated with elevated levels of Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA).
Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a protein that normally occurs in fetal gut tissue. By the time a baby is born, the level of CEA becomes very low or undetectable in the blood. In adults, higher-than-normal levels of CEA may be a sign of certain cancers or noncancerous conditions. While not a diagnostic test on its own, elevated CEA levels can sometimes serve as a tumor marker, particularly for monitoring the effectiveness of cancer treatment and detecting recurrence.
It's important to note that elevated CEA levels can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions, such as inflammation, infection, or smoking. Therefore, a high CEA level alone does not confirm a cancer diagnosis.
Key Cancers with Elevated CEA
Based on common clinical associations, several cancers are known to frequently result in high CEA levels. These include:
- Breast cancer
- Lung cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Liver cancer
- Ovarian cancer
These cancers are often monitored using CEA tests, especially advanced or metastatic cases.
Summary Table of Cancers with High CEA
| Cancer Type | Common CEA Association | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Breast | Yes | More common in metastatic disease |
| Lung | Yes | Can be elevated in various lung cancers |
| Pancreatic | Yes | Often elevated |
| Stomach | Yes | Can be used for monitoring |
| Liver | Yes | Can be elevated in hepatocellular carcinoma |
| Ovarian | Yes | Can be used alongside other markers |
While these cancers are frequently linked to high CEA, other cancers, particularly those originating in the gastrointestinal tract, may also show elevated levels. Monitoring CEA levels helps healthcare professionals track disease progression and response to therapy in patients diagnosed with these specific cancers.
