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Tumor Markers

Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)

Normal range < 3.0 nonsmoker (< 5.0 smoker) ng/mL (< 3.0 µg/L SI). Specimen: Serum.

Also known as: carcinoembryonic antigen.

< 3.0 nonsmoker (< 5.0 smoker) ng/mLReference range

Reference range

This result is reported qualitatively or as a one-sided threshold rather than a two-sided numeric band.

SpecimenSerum
Conventional range< 3.0 nonsmoker (< 5.0 smoker) ng/mL
SI range< 3.0 µg/L
Conversion factor×1 (conventional → SI)
PanelTumor Markers

Convert any Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) result between units on the unit converter.

What is the normal range for Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)?

The standard teaching reference range for Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) is < 3.0 nonsmoker (< 5.0 smoker) ng/mL in conventional units, or < 3.0 µg/L in SI units. This value is measured in serum.

Source: Adult reference values compiled from Pagana & Pagana, Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, and Fischbach & Dunning, A Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, method, age, sex, and population — always use the range printed on the actual result.

Above the range

Common causes of a high Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)

  • Colorectal cancer (monitoring)
  • Other GI, lung, or breast cancers
  • Smoking
  • Inflammatory bowel disease

At the bedside

Nursing considerations

  • Best used to monitor treated colorectal cancer for recurrence, not to screen.

Study aid

Your notes on Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)

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