CEA Carcinoembryonic Antigen
CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen) is a protein normally produced in small amounts during foetal development and then at very low levels in healthy adults. Elevated CEA levels can be associated with colorectal, lung, breast, and other conditions — but also with many benign causes such as smoking, inflammatory bowel disease, and liver disease. CEA is not a diagnostic test.
Turnaround 48 hours, estimate Turnaround: up to 48 hours after your blood draw (estimate).
CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen): what this test measures
CEA measures the blood concentration of carcinoembryonic antigen, a glycoprotein involved in cell adhesion during early foetal development. In healthy adults, CEA is present at very low levels. Elevated concentrations may reflect increased cellular activity in various tissues.
CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen): why this value matters
CEA is widely used to monitor certain conditions over time and assess treatment response. Because CEA can be elevated by many benign factors — most notably smoking — a single raised result should always be reviewed in full clinical context.
CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen): how the blood test works
- Referral
- No GP referral needed. After the order we arrange the referral through ZorgDomein, within one business day; orders after 17:00 or at the weekend start on the next business day. ZorgDomein emails a barcode, and that barcode is what the draw site needs.
- The draw
- A blood draw from a vein in the arm, at a partner laboratory's draw site. No home kit, no finger prick.
- Results
- Turnaround: up to 48 hours after your blood draw (estimate).
- Where
- 650+ draw sites run by independent laboratories across the Netherlands. Draw sites
CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen): when is testing worthwhile?
CEA testing is typically recommended by a healthcare provider rather than self-requested. Consult your healthcare provider before arranging this test independently.
CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen): symptoms of a high or low value
Low Levels
Low or undetectable CEA levels are within the normal reference range and are not associated with specific symptoms.
High Levels
An elevated CEA does not itself cause symptoms. Important note: smoking can raise CEA significantly. Reference ranges differ for smokers and non-smokers.
CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen): lifestyle and this value
Not smoking is the single most impactful lifestyle change for reducing CEA levels. A diet rich in vegetables, fruit, and whole grains — combined with regular physical activity and limited alcohol — supports overall colon health.
CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen): frequently asked questions
Does an elevated CEA mean I have cancer?
No. CEA can be elevated by many benign conditions, including smoking, inflammatory bowel disease, and liver disease.
Why is there a different reference range for smokers?
Smoking stimulates CEA production and regularly causes levels to exceed the standard reference range for non-smokers.
Can CEA screen for colorectal cancer in healthy people?
No. CEA is not recommended as a population screening tool. Established colorectal screening programmes are the appropriate tools for this purpose.
Results without a doctor's assessment
You receive your values with the unit and reference range. A doctor's assessment is not part of this site. Discuss your results with your GP for explanation and treatment decisions.