What Causes a Positive Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) Test?

With improving living standards, an increasing number of people are paying greater attention to their health and regularly undergo medical check-ups. Then, what causes a positive carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) test result?

What Causes a Positive Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) Test?

A positive CEA test may indicate the presence of malignant tumors and must therefore be taken seriously. The normal reference range for CEA is 0–5 ng/mL. Clinically, elevated CEA levels may be observed in various malignancies, including colorectal cancer, lung cancer, gastric cancer, breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, ovarian cancer, and uterine cancer. A gradual rise in CEA levels following treatment often suggests tumor recurrence. Mild elevations may also occur in certain benign conditions, such as liver cirrhosis, emphysema, colorectal polyps, and gastrointestinal inflammation.

A positive CEA test generally indicates overexpression or clinically significant elevation of this serological tumor marker in the patient’s body. However, CEA has relatively low specificity; thus, its levels may become abnormally elevated in various types of cancer—including gastrointestinal malignancies such as gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, and biliary tract cancer. Additionally, gynecologic cancers—such as breast and ovarian cancers—may also lead to increased CEA levels. Likewise, pulmonary and esophageal tumors can elevate multiple tumor markers, including CEA.

Patients should maintain a positive and optimistic mindset and actively cooperate with treatment to prevent disease progression. We hope this information proves helpful to you!