CEA, commonly known as "Carcinoembryonic Antigen," is a protein that is produced by certain tissues in the body, most notably the cells that line the digestive tract. It is also referred to as "CD66e" or "CEACAM5," which stands for "Carcinoembryonic Antigen Cell Adhesion Molecule-5." CEA is measured and monitored through a laboratory blood test to detect and evaluate the presence of certain cancers, particularly colorectal cancer.
The normal function of CEA is not precisely known, but it is believed to play a role in cell adhesion and transportation processes during embryonic development. However, elevated levels of CEA in the bloodstream may indicate the presence of certain types of cancer, including colorectal, pancreatic, lung, breast, and ovarian cancers. CEA levels can be useful for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, monitoring treatments, and in some cases, detecting cancer recurrence.
It is important to note that although CEA levels may be elevated in cancer patients, they can also be increased in non-cancerous conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, smoking, and certain benign tumors. Therefore, CEA should not be used as a standalone diagnostic tool, but rather as part of a comprehensive evaluation that includes medical history, physical examination, imaging studies, and other laboratory tests.
In conclusion, CEA is a protein produced by certain tissues in the body, notably the cells lining the digestive tract, and it is used as a marker for certain types of cancers, especially colorectal cancer. Monitoring CEA levels through a blood test can aid in cancer diagnosis, treatment evaluation, and monitoring for cancer recurrence.
