A carcinoembryonic antigen ( CEA) test is utilized to inspect how well treatment is operating in particular kinds of cancer, especially colon cancer.
What is Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)
Carcinoembryonic antigens are compounds (typically proteins) that are produced by some kinds of cancer. In reaction to the antigens, the body produces antibodies to assist combat them. A CEA test is typically performed after surgical treatment to inspect carcinoembryonic antigen levels.
As well as being a helpful marker for colon cancer, CEA tests can be utilized to examine other kinds of cancer, consisting of:.
- rectal cancer
- lung cancer
- breast cancer
- liver cancer
- pancreatic cancer
- stomach cancer
- ovarian cancer
CEA levels might likewise be raised in non-cancerous conditions, such as liver illness and inflammatory bowel illness (Crohn’s illness and ulcerative colitis).