Carcino Embryonic Antigen

Also referred as

Serum Carcinoembryonic Antigen Test

For men & women

Earliest reports in

18 hours

Contains

1 test

Test price:

₹669

~~₹740~~

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Know more about this test

The Carcino Embryonic Antigen or CEA test is used to measure the level of CEA, a protein that can be present in higher amounts in certain types of cancers, particularly the adenocarcinoma of the large intestine and rectum (colorectal cancers). However, it may also be used to monitor other cancers, such as breast, lung, thyroid, and pancreatic cancer.

Samples required

Blood

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Preparation for this test

Sample Collection

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TATA 1mg Labs is a cutting-edge facility delivering top-quality diagnostic services right to your doorstep. We take pride in three core values: Assured Quality, Best Prices and Timely Reports. Transparency is at the heart of our operations, ensuring our customers always have clear and reliable information. Our dedicated team is committed to offering an exceptional customer experience and continually innovates to meet and exceed customer expectations.

Understanding Carcino Embryonic Antigen

Carcinogenic embryonic antigen (CEA) is a protein typically produced during fetal development but is present at very low levels in healthy adults. Higher CEA levels can indicate the presence of certain types of cancer, but non-cancerous conditions, such as inflammation, smoking, infections, and disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, cirrhosis of the liver, and some benign tumors can also influence them.

Your doctor may recommend the Carcino Embryonic Antigen test to monitor if cancer has spread to other body regions (metastasized), determine the treatment response, and check for recurrence. The test is typically meant for individuals with symptoms suggestive of colorectal cancer, like sudden weight loss, changes in bowel habits, or abdominal pain, or for those with a history of colorectal cancer or other cancers. However, the test is not recommended for routine cancer screening in asymptomatic individuals (healthy or those without any suggestive symptoms).

It is important to note that the Carcino Embryonic Antigen test is not a standalone test; other confirmatory procedures, such as imaging studies or biopsies, are often necessary to validate cancer diagnosis. Higher than normal CEA levels may suggest the presence of cancer or other conditions. However, false positives (denoting the presence of cancer when cancer is absent) and false negatives (denoting the absence of cancer when cancer is present) can also occur. Additionally, sometimes, patients with confirmed cancer (by imaging, etc.) may have normal CEA levels. It is, therefore, advised to go for repeat/serial testing to look for consistently raised CEA levels.

CEA levels generally return to normal between one and four months after the cancer has been successfully removed. Hence, baseline CEA levels are established before starting treatment for meaningful evaluation of treatment response, and detecting recurrences as persistently high levels after therapy or during follow-up may raise suspicion of ineffective treatment or recurrence.

Usually, no special preparation is needed before undergoing the Carcino Embryonic Antigen test. However, providing a brief clinical history/doctor's prescription at the time of sample collection is important. CEA samples should preferably be collected before colonoscopy as the procedure may temporarily raise tumor marker levels. Additionally, tell your doctor about any medications and supplements you take, as certain medications can affect your test results.

Reference ranges are approximate and may vary based on age, gender, medical history, etc. Values obtained with different assay methodologies should not be used interchangeably in serial testing. It is recommended that only one assay method be used consistently to monitor each patient's course of therapy. Abnormal test results require an expert interpretation; therefore, never try to self-medicate at home based solely on these results, and always consult a doctor for a proper understanding of the test results.

What does Carcino Embryonic Antigen measure?

The Carcino Embryonic Antigen test measures the level of a specific tumor marker called CEA In the blood, often associated with colon and rectal cancer. This biomarker is produced by certain tissues in the body, specifically gastrointestinal tissues, during fetal development. CEA levels drop to low or nonexistent levels after birth. Elevated levels of CEA in the blood may indicate the presence of certain cancers, particularly colorectal cancer. However, it's important to note that high CEA levels can also be linked to non-cancerous conditions.

For a comprehensive evaluation, it is advised to consider other diagnostic tests in conjunction with Carcino Embryonic Antigen test and consult a doctor for a proper understanding of the test results.

Packages containing Carcino Embryonic Antigen

Cancer Marker Profile - Female

Contains 29 tests

Get reports within 33-48 hrs

₹3619

Test Information is reviewed by: Dr. Swati Gupta (Anand), MBBS, MD Lab Medicine and written by Dr. Lipika Khurana, BDS, PGDHHM . The test details are for information purpose only. Consult a doctor before taking any test. Last updated on: 20th Jul 2026

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Carcino Embryonic Antigen test price for other cities

Price in	Mumbai	Rs. 859
Price in	New Delhi	Rs. 669
Price in	Bangalore	Rs. 879
Price in	Kolkata	Rs. 629
Price in	Hyderabad	Rs. 629

FAQs related to Carcino Embryonic Antigen

What is the importance of getting the Carcino Embryonic Antigen test done?

The Carcino Embryonic Antigen test helps diagnose and manage certain types of cancers, especially colorectal cancer. It can be used to monitor the treatment response, detect recurrence, and in some cases, used for early detection of cancer in patients with suggestive symptoms.

Is any specific preparation needed for this test?

No specific preparation is required for this test. However, it's essential to inform your doctor about any medications, supplements, or ongoing treatments, as certain substances might affect the test results. CEA samples should preferably be collected before colonoscopy as the procedure may transiently raise tumor marker levels.

Is there any risk associated with a Carcino Embryonic Antigen test?

No, the Carcino Embryonic Antigen test is generally safe with minimal risks. However, you may feel slight discomfort during blood sample collection but chances of serious complications are extremely rare.

When is the Carcino Embryonic Antigen test done?

The Carcino Embryonic Antigen test is done when you have symptoms that suggest cancer, especially colorectal cancer such as change in bowel habits, diarrhea, constipation, or feeling that the bowel does not empty completely, bright red or very dark blood in the stool, unwanted weight loss, etc. Additionally, if you are undergoing cancer treatment, the test may be done regularly to monitor your response to treatment.

How often should I get the CEA test done?

The frequency of the CEA test varies based on your specific situation. If you are undergoing treatment for cancer, your doctor may order the test regularly to track your response to therapy.

What happens if CEA is high?

In adults, higher than normal levels of CEA may be a sign of cancer. However, it is important to remember that CEA is also raised in some noncancerous conditions like smoking, infections, inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, cirrhosis of the liver, and some benign tumors that can cause CEA levels to rise.

What is carcinoembryonic antigen?

Carcinoembryonic antigen is a protein found in certain tissues of the developing fetus. When the baby is born, its production usually stops.

What are the risk factors of cancer?

The risk factors for cancer include increasing age, consumption of excessive alcohol, unhealthy diet, chronic inflammation, hormonal problems, immunosuppression, obesity, exposure to radiation, sunlight, and consumption of tobacco.

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Contains 1 test

Carcino Embryonic Antigen

Report delivery

Standard time

18 hrs

For slots after 11 AM, report will be delivered in 18 hours.

Samples required

Blood

1 vial required

Our phlebotomist will draw a blood sample, typically from a vein in your inner elbow.

Preparations

Provide brief clinical history/ doctor's prescription at the time of sample collection.

Why is this test booked?

To monitor cancer treatment, including response to therapy and recurrence.

As an indicator of the amount of cancer or size of tumor present (tumor burden).

To assist in cancer staging.

As a follow-up to a positive screening test for cancer.

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Tata 1mg phlebotomists are DMLT / B.Sc MLT certified and have 1+ years of experience

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Other than sample collection, our phlebos are also skilled in first aid, ECG & BP monitoring

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Carcino Embryonic Antigen

Understanding Carcino Embryonic Antigen

What does Carcino Embryonic Antigen measure?

Carcino Embryonic Antigen test price for other cities

FAQs related to Carcino Embryonic Antigen

What is the importance of getting the Carcino Embryonic Antigen test done?

Is any specific preparation needed for this test?

Is there any risk associated with a Carcino Embryonic Antigen test?

When is the Carcino Embryonic Antigen test done?