Carcinoembryonic Antigen Test
Laboratory Tests
estimated about CNY 200-500
(estimated about USD 30-70)
30 min
Disclaimer: This site is a medical service platform; some page content is AI-assisted. Health-related information does not constitute medical advice. If you have any questions, please consult a healthcare professional. See full disclaimer
Description
The Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) test helps monitor colorectal and other cancers during treatment or follow-up; patients in China may need it after diagnosis or surgery, with costs typically ranging ¥200–¥500, and ChinaMedicalHub assists with hospital booking and interpreter support.
Main Uses
The primary purposes of the CEA test include: 1. Monitoring the response to cancer treatment, 2. Detecting recurrence of cancer after treatment, 3. Assessing the effectiveness of surgical removal of tumors, 4. Screening for colorectal cancer in high-risk patients, 5. Evaluating the prognosis of certain types of cancer, 6. Distinguishing between benign and malignant conditions in some cases.
Normal Range
The normal range for Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) is typically less than or equal to 5.0 ng/mL in non-smokers and up to 10.0 ng/mL in smokers.
Low Values - Possible Causes
Low CEA levels are generally not a concern and do not usually indicate any specific health issues. However, very low levels might be seen in: 1. Healthy individuals, 2. After successful treatment of cancer, 3. In some rare genetic conditions, 4. Following certain dietary changes, 5. Post-surgical removal of the tumor.
High Values - Possible Causes
Elevated CEA levels can be caused by: 1. Colorectal cancer, 2. Lung cancer, 3. Breast cancer, 4. Pancreatic cancer, 5. Liver cancer, 6. Gastrointestinal tract cancers, 7. Smoking, 8. Inflammatory bowel disease, 9. Cirrhosis, 10. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).