ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

Carcinoembryonic Antigen, Fluid : 0020742

Mnemonic: CEA FL

Methodology: Quantitative Electrochemiluminescent Immunoassay
Performed: Sun-Sat
Reported: Within 24 hours
Specimen Required: Collect: Body fluid.

Specimen Preparation: Transfer 1 mL body fluid to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube. (Min: 0.5 mL)

Storage/Transport Temperature: Refrigerated.

Remarks: Indicate a source on test request form.

Unacceptable Conditions: Breast milk and salivary fluid. Specimens too viscous to be aspirated by instrument.

Stability (collection to initiation of testing): Ambient: 8 hours; Refrigerated: 1 week; Frozen: 6 months
Reference Interval:
A reference interval has not been established for body fluid specimens.
Interpretive Data: The Roche CEA electrochemiluminescent immunoassay is used. Results obtained with different assay methods or kits cannot be used interchangeably. Measurements of CEA have been shown to be clinically relevant in the management of patients with colorectal, breast, lung, prostatic, pancreatic, and ovarian carcinomas. Smokers may have slightly elevated levels of CEA. The CEA assay value, regardless of level, should not be interpreted as evidence for the presence or absence of malignant disease and is not recommended for use as a screening procedure to detect the presence of cancer in the general population. This test is FDA cleared but is not labeled for use with body fluids.

See Compliance Statement B: www.aruplab.com/CS
CPT Code(s): 82378
Cross References: CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen, Fluid)