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Carcinoembryonic Antigen: A Key Biomarker in Cancer Detection and Management
Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a glycoprotein found in the blood, primarily used as a biomarker in the diagnosis and management of certain types of cancers. Although it is normally produced in small amounts during fetal development, its presence in elevated levels in adults often indicates abnormal cell activity. CEA is most commonly associated with cancers of the colon, rectum, pancreas, breast, and lung, making it a valuable tool for clinicians in monitoring disease progression and treatment effectiveness.
CEA testing is typically conducted through a simple blood test. The levels of CEA are measured in nanograms per milliliter, and while low levels are considered normal, significant increases can suggest the presence of malignancy or the recurrence of cancer after treatment. However, it is important to note that elevated CEA levels are not exclusively linked to cancer. Conditions such as inflammation, liver…