ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

Carcinoembryonic Antigen : 0080080

Mnemonic: CEA

Methodology: Quantitative Electrochemiluminescent Immunoassay
Performed: Sun-Sat
Reported: Within 24 hours
Specimen Required: Collect: Serum separator tube.

Specimen Preparation: Allow specimen to clot completely at room temperature. Separate serum from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection. Transfer 1 mL serum to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube. (Min: 0.6 mL)

Storage/Transport Temperature: Refrigerated. Also acceptable: Frozen.

Unacceptable Conditions: Body Fluid (refer to Carcinoembryonic Antigen, Fluid, ARUP test code 0020742). Plasma.

Stability (collection to initiation of testing): After separation from cells: Ambient: 8 hours; Refrigerated: 1 week; Frozen: 6 months
Reference Interval:
0.0-3.0 ng/mL
Interpretive Data: The Roche CEA electrochemiluminescent immunoassay is used. Results obtained with different test methods or kits cannot be used interchangeably. Measurement of CEA has 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. 
CPT Code(s): 82378
Cross References: CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen)