Individual test · Labcorp 002139

Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)

This test measures the level of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), a protein found in the blood that is often produced by certain types of tumors. It is most commonly used to monitor the progress of cancer treatment or to check if colorectal cancer has returned after therapy. By tracking changes in these levels, doctors can better understand if a tumor is growing or shrinking. However, this test cannot diagnose cancer by itself or screen the general population, as smoking and other non-cancerous conditions can also cause elevated results.