CEA
Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) is a protein that can be found in certain body tissues and fluids. This test measures CEA levels and is mainly used to monitor cancer treatment, especially colorectal c…
Category: Tumor Markers
Also known as: cea, carcinoembryonic antigen
Reference range: 0–3 ng/mL (Source: ABIM)
Standard unit: ng/mL
High values may indicate
High CEA levels may indicate colorectal, pancreatic, lung, breast, or ovarian cancer, as well as smoking, liver cirrhosis, or inflammatory bowel disease.
Low values may indicate
Low CEA levels are normal and suggest no active cancer or significant inflammation.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a normal CEA level?
- A typical reference range for CEA is 0–3 ng/mL (source: ABIM). Reference ranges vary by laboratory, age, and sex, so always compare against the range on your own lab report.
- What units is CEA measured in?
- CEA is most commonly reported in ng/mL. Labs in different countries may use other units — you can convert between them with BloodId's blood test unit converter.
- Where do CEA reference ranges come from?
- BloodId uses ABIM standard reference ranges and educational information from MedlinePlus (see our methodology). Reference ranges still vary by lab, age, and sex, so always compare against your own report.
- Can I track CEA over time?
- Yes. Upload results from any lab and BloodId charts your CEA over time against its reference range, so you can see whether the trend is rising, falling, or stable.