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    Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)

    Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)



    Test Overview

    The carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) test measures the amount of this Reference protein Opens New Window that may appear in the blood of some people who have certain kinds of cancers, especially large intestine (Reference colon and rectal Opens New Window) cancer. It may also be present in people with cancer of the Reference pancreas Opens New Window, breast, ovary, or lung.

    CEA is normally produced during the development of a Reference fetus Opens New Window. The production of CEA stops before birth, and it usually is not present in the blood of healthy adults.




    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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