Based on its widespread use and association with numerous cancer types, CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen) is considered a significant and widely utilized tumor marker.
Understanding CEA as a Tumor Marker
Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) is a protein normally produced during fetal development. Production usually stops before birth. In adults, elevated levels of CEA in the blood can be a sign of certain cancers or other conditions.
Why CEA is Widely Used
As highlighted by existing information, serum CEA is one of the most widely used tumour markers. This widespread adoption points to its recognized value in the medical field.
Cancers Associated with Elevated CEA
CEA levels have been reported to be elevated in a variety of cancers, including:
- Colon and rectum
- Breast
- Lung
- Pancreas
- Liver
- Stomach
- Thyroid
- Prostate
- Bladder
- Ovary
The presence of elevated CEA in these different cancers indicates its broad relevance across various oncological areas.
Practical Use of CEA Testing
While CEA is not typically used for screening the general population for cancer, it plays a role in:
- Monitoring Treatment: Tracking CEA levels during cancer treatment can help assess how well therapy is working. A decrease in CEA may indicate a positive response.
- Detecting Recurrence: After treatment, rising CEA levels might signal that the cancer has returned.
- Prognosis: In some cases, high CEA levels before treatment can be associated with a less favorable prognosis.
Its utility across different stages of cancer management contributes to its classification as a widely used marker.
