What does a positive carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) result mean?
Disease description:
I have developed a tumor, and a recent hospital test showed that my carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level is positive. I am very worried and afraid that it might be cancer. I want to see a doctor, but I don't know which department to visit. Could you please advise what should be done if CEA test results are positive?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Qi Zhirong
When carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is positive, the following steps should be taken:
1. Further examination: Since a positive CEA may indicate the presence of malignant tumors, immediate further medical evaluations, such as imaging studies (CT, MRI, etc.), should be conducted to determine whether a tumor exists and to identify its location and size.
2. Confirm diagnosis: CEA is not a specific tumor marker for cancer. Therefore, a comprehensive assessment combining clinical symptoms, other laboratory indicators, and pathological findings is necessary to establish a definitive diagnosis.
3. Active treatment: If diagnosed with malignant tumor, an individualized treatment plan should be developed based on tumor type, stage, and the patient's overall health condition, including options such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.
4. Regular follow-up: During and after treatment, regular CEA testing and imaging examinations should be performed to monitor disease progression and evaluate treatment effectiveness.
