Good CEA levels, also known as normal levels, are generally considered to be less than or equal to 3 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). Most healthy individuals have CEA levels below this threshold.
Understanding CEA Levels
Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a protein that occurs naturally in the tissue of a developing baby in the womb. By the time a baby is born, the level of this protein becomes very low or undetectable in the blood. In adults, elevated CEA levels can sometimes indicate certain types of cancer, although they can also be raised due to non-cancerous conditions.
Normal vs. Elevated CEA Levels
The reference range for CEA levels is primarily used to monitor individuals diagnosed with specific cancers, such as colorectal cancer, and to assess the effectiveness of treatment.
Normal CEA Range
Based on standard guidelines and the provided reference:
- Normal Level: Less than or equal to 3 ng/mL
It is important to note that laboratory reference ranges can vary slightly, but 3 ng/mL is a widely accepted upper limit for non-smokers. Smoking can often cause higher-than-normal CEA levels even in healthy individuals, sometimes up to 5 ng/mL.
CEA Levels After Treatment
Successfully treating cancer often leads to a decrease in CEA levels. As highlighted in the reference, CEA levels will generally return to normal between one and four months after the cancer has been successfully removed. This return to the normal range is often seen as a positive sign indicating effective treatment.
- Post-Treatment: Levels returning to or staying below the normal range (≤ 3 ng/mL) after successful cancer therapy are generally considered favorable.
Key Takeaway
For most people, including those in good health and those who have undergone successful cancer treatment, a CEA level of 3 ng/mL or less is considered within the good or normal range. Levels above this may warrant further investigation, but it's crucial to remember that CEA is a marker and not a definitive diagnostic tool for cancer on its own.
