What causes a positive carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) result?
Disease description:
A relative went to the hospital for a checkup and was told that the carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) test was positive. What causes a positive CEA result?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Qi Zhirong
CEA positivity may be caused by various factors:
1. Tumor marker: CEA is a tumor marker for the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory system, breast, and other areas. A positive CEA result may indicate the presence of tumors or malignancies in these regions.
2. False positivity: CEA positivity can also be false positive. Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as long-term smoking and alcohol consumption may lead to transient elevation.
3. Lifestyle factors: Poor lifestyle habits, such as chronic late-night sleeping and irregular eating patterns, may also result in a positive CEA test.
4. Other diseases: Apart from tumors, some benign conditions such as hepatitis, pancreatitis, and enteritis may also cause mild elevation of CEA levels, although such increases typically do not persist.
If CEA positivity is detected, further medical evaluation is recommended to determine the underlying cause.
