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    Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)

    Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)



    Why It Is Done

    The carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) test is used to:

    • Find how widespread cancer is for some types of the disease, especially colon cancer.
    • Check the success of treatment for colon cancer.
      • CEA levels may be measured both before and after surgery to evaluate both the success of the surgery and the person's chances of recovery.
      • CEA levels may be measured during treatment with medicines to destroy cancer cells (Reference chemotherapy Opens New Window). This provides information about how well the treatment is working.
    • Check to see if cancer has returned after treatment.



    By: Reference Healthwise Staff Last Revised: Reference April 8, 2011
    Medical Review: Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
    Reference Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology


    This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.


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