Book Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) Test - Price, Range 2024

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Introduction to Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) Test

CEA stands for carcinoembryonic antigen. CEA is often used as a tumor marker in cancer diagnosis and monitoring. Tumor markers are substances produced by cancer cells or normal cells in response to cancer. 

The CEA test helps in cancer diagnosis and management. The blood test measures carcinoembryonic antigen levels, a protein produced by some cancer cells and certain healthy tissues. The high CEA levels can raise the risk of cancer, particularly those affecting the digestive system, lungs, and breasts. CEA alone rarely presents with specific symptoms. However, doctors may recommend the test if you experience sudden weight loss, abdominal pain or bloating, changes in bowel habits, blood in stool, difficulty breathing, breast lumps, or discharge. Therefore, if your doctor recommends the CEA blood test, consider taking the test from Redcliffe Labs. The professional ensures to provide accurate test results on time. 

Test details in brief

Purpose of the CEA Test

The Carcinoembryonic antigen blood test helps to measure the CEA level in the blood. The test serves the following purposes-

• Estimating cancer prognosis- The test is not used for initial cancer diagnosis; CEA levels help to identify stage-specific cancers, particularly colorectal cancer, by indicating the extent of tumor growth and spread. 
• Treatment response- During cancer treatment, regular CEA tests can track its effectiveness. Low CEA levels mean a positive response, while high or rising CEA levels may suggest ineffective treatment or recurrence.
• Recurrence monitoring- After completing cancer treatment, periodic CEA blood tests help monitor for cancer recurrence. Rising levels could be an early warning sign that requires further investigation.

In addition to color or rectal cancer, the CEA test can help to assess the following types of cancers-

• Breast cancer
• Lung cancer
• Thyroid cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Head and neck cancer

What does the CEA Test detect?

The Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a glycoprotein, a protein combined with sugar molecules. During fetal development, CEA plays a role in cell growth and differentiation, particularly in the digestive system. Healthy adults have very low levels of CEA in their blood and other bodily fluids. 

The Carcinoembryonic antigen test measures the concentration of CEA in these fluids, in blood, and sometimes cerebrospinal fluid (around the brain and spinal cord) or peritoneal fluid (lining the abdominal cavity). 

Preparation for the CEA Test

Generally, the CEA test requires minimal preparation; here are some instructions to follow- 

• Discuss with your doctor- Tell your doctor about medications that might affect your CEA levels. 
• Smoking- Avoid smoking or drinking at least 24 hours before the test. 
• Fasting- No fasting is necessary for the CEA test. You can eat and drink normally beforehand.

Don't hesitate to ask your phlebotomist any questions. The blood draw process is a simple and quick procedure. Relaxing your arm helps make it easier and minimizes discomfort.

The procedure of the CEA Test

During the CEA test, the lab technician will collect the blood sample from the vein of your arm. 

A clean needle will be inserted into the vein. You may feel a brief pricking sensation during the procedure. The blood will be drawn into a small vial or tube. This process usually takes less than a minute. After the needle is removed, the puncture site will be covered with a bandage to stop any bleeding. You will be asked to apply gentle pressure to the area for a few minutes to prevent bruising. The blood sample will be labeled with your information and sent to a laboratory for analysis.

What do the CEA Test reports indicate?

The test reports will be available within 15 hours of sample collection. Consult your reports with your doctor; the healthcare provider may explain the implications, considering your medical history and other factors. Depending on the test reports, your doctor may recommend further testing, treatment, or regular monitoring of your CEA levels. CEA blood test reports indicate the level of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) present in your blood, spinal fluid, or peritoneal fluid. The results indicate- 

Normal CEA levels- Healthy adults have low CEA levels in their blood; the normal CEA range is less than 0 to 2.5 ng/mL. 

Elevated CEA levels- The high CEA levels indicate cancer. There are certain cancer types associated with high CEA levels-

• Colorectal cancer- This is the most common cancer associated with elevated CEA levels. Levels may be higher with larger tumors, advanced stages, or recurrence.
• Other cancers- High CEA can also be seen in lung, breast, stomach, pancreas, liver, and other cancers. 

Non-cancerous Conditions- 

• Gastrointestinal disorders- Ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, and other inflammatory bowel diseases can cause elevated CEA levels.
• Liver diseases- Cirrhosis, hepatitis, and other liver problems can also affect CEA levels.
• Smoker's lung- Smoking can cause CEA levels to be slightly elevated without indicating cancer.
• Other conditions- Pancreatitis, certain lung infections, and rare genetic disorders can also affect CEA levels.

Low CEA Levels- The low CEA levels indicate the effectiveness of the treatment. It means the tumor is small, and the cancer has not spread to other body parts. 

What is the risk of a CEA blood test?

The CEA blood test has very minimal risks. Here are the potential risks and side effects to consider:

• Pain or discomfort during sample collection
• Slight bruising at the puncture site
• Minor bleeding may occur after needle removal
• Some people may experience lightheadedness or dizziness.
• Risk of infection
• Multiple puncture sites
• Allergic reactions in some people

Who should take the CEA Test?

Whether you should take the CEA blood test depends on several factors, including:

• People who have symptoms like abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, sudden weight loss, chest pain, difficulty breathing, lump in the breast, change in breast size, or nipple discharge.
• Have Family history
• People who have a history of certain cancers

What are the common symptoms related to abnormal CEA levels?

The abnormal CEA levels don't cause specific symptoms. However, here are some possible symptoms linked to common situations- 

Type of Cancers

• Colorectal cancer- Abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, blood in stool), unexplained weight loss, fatigue.
• Lung cancer- Persistent cough, difficulty breathing, chest pain, coughing up blood, weight loss.
• Breast cancer- Lump in the breast, changes in breast shape or size, nipple discharge.
• Other cancers- Symptoms may include persistent pain, fatigue, weight loss, appetite changes, nausea, vomiting, and bleeding.

Non-cancerous conditions:

• Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis): Abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, fever, fatigue.
• Liver diseases (cirrhosis, hepatitis)- Fatigue, nausea, vomiting, jaundice, abdominal pain, swelling of legs or ankles.
• Smoker's lung- Cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness.

The presence of these symptoms doesn't necessarily mean cancer. Get a Carcinoembryonic antigen blood test to measure the CEA levels and confirm the condition for proper evaluation and diagnosis. 

CEA Test price at Redcliffe Labs

The CEA test cost is INR 740 at Redcliffe Labs. You can book your test with the Redcliffe Labs app or call us to book an appointment online. Our labs are NABL-accredited and ISO-certified and adhere to international quality standards for testing accuracy and reliability. We also provide home sample collection services. You can choose us as your trusted diagnostic partner to avail a wide range of tests at affordable prices and the best discounts. Book your CEA test with us today!

Other Cancer Screening Tests/Packages That You Can Book with Redcliffe Labs

• HCG Tumor Marker (Cancer) Test
• Breast Cancer Test - Essential
• Cancer Screening Package Essential - Male
• Cancer Screening Package Advance - Female
• Cancer Screening Package Advance - Male

The CEA Test: Navigating Cancer and Beyond

For those diagnosed with cancer, the CEA test is very helpful to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and detect early signs of recurrence in the fight against the disease. CEA is a protein found in low levels in healthy adults and can rise in response to various conditions, including cancer like colorectal, lung, breast, stomach, pancreas, liver, and others. However, the people who are noticing persistent abnormal symptoms like abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, persistent cough, and breast lumps must get the CEA test from nearby Redcliffe Labs. Always consult your doctor to determine if the CEA test is right for you and interpret the results properly. The detection and intervention are crucial for managing various health conditions, including cancer. You're not alone in this journey. Reach out to your doctor, learn about the CEA test, and together, navigate towards a healthier tomorrow.