Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is one of the most well-known tumor markers identified early. CEA has a wide range of application value and can be used as one of the important indicators for tumor diagnosis, efficacy evaluation and prognosis judgment.
1. Overview of CEA.
CEA is a soluble polysaccharide protein complex consisting of 45 to 55 percent carbohydrates and 45 percent protein. Its molecular weight ranges from 150-300 kd, it is mainly inactivated in the liver and has a half-life of about 3 days. CEA was first discovered in 1965 and is considered one of the broadest spectrum of tumor markers.
2. Analysis of the causes of elevated CEA.
1.Tumor.
The most common cause of elevated CEA is tumors, particularly colorectal cancer. In addition to colorectal cancer, other gastrointestinal tumors (such as gastric cancer, pancreatic cancer), respiratory tumors (such as lung cancer), breast cancer, ovarian cancer, etc., can also lead to an increase in CEA. Tumor cells secrete CEA, which elevates it in the blood.
2.Inflammation or infection.
Elevated CEA can also be due to inflammation or infection. Certain inflammations and infections activate the immune system, leading to increased production and release of CEA. For example, diseases such as pancreatitis, pneumonia, and rheumatism can all lead to an increase in CEA.
3.Liver disease.
Liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatitis may also cause elevated CEA. Impaired liver function may lead to a decrease in the transport capacity of CEA, resulting in increased accumulation of CEA in the blood.
4.Smoking or drinking.
Smoking and alcohol consumption are risk factors for some chronic diseases, including lung cancer, alcoholic liver disease, and more. Smoking and alcohol consumption may contribute to elevated CEA, but this elevation tends to be mild, and tumor-related elevations are usually more significant.
5.Advanced age and physiological changes.
CEA levels in older adults are usually mildly elevated with age, which may be related to age-related cellular changes and decreased physiological function. However, it is important to note that an elevated CEA in older adults does not necessarily indicate the presence of a tumor, and routine cancer screening is still necessary.
6.Other diseases and factors.
Some other disorders or factors may also be associated with elevated CEA. For example, chronic diseases such as kidney disease, diabetes, and the use of certain medications may also have an impact on CEA levels.
Conclusion. Elevated CEA can have a variety of causes, most commonly due to tumors. However, an elevated CEA does not definitively diagnose a specific disorder, so a comprehensive analysis and judgment should be made in conjunction with other clinical examinations and medical history. If CEA is elevated or persistently elevated, it is advisable to consult a physician promptly for further diagnosis and**.
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