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HelpTest ID CEASF Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA), Spinal Fluid
Useful For
Detecting meningeal carcinomatosis, intradural or extradural infiltration, or brain parenchymal metastasis from adenocarcinoma or squamous-cell carcinoma
Method Name
Chemiluminometric Immunoassay
Reporting Name
Carcinoembryonic Ag (CEA), CSFSpecimen Type
CSFContainer/Tube: Sterile vial
Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL
Forms: If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send an Oncology Test Request Form (T729) with the specimen
(http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/it-mmfiles/oncology-request-form.pdf)
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.4 mL
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| CSF | Refrigerated (preferred) | 7 days |
| Ambient | 24 hours |
Clinical Information
Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) normally is present in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in very low concentrations. Elevations in serum CEA can cause passive transfer to CSF. Tumors of the brain, especially metastatic tumors, can elevate CSF CEA.
Reference Values
<0.6 ng/mL
Tumor markers are not specific for malignancy, and values may vary by method.
Cautions
Although the assay appears to be specific for adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, increased carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) values in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are not seen in all patients with such tumors of the brain.
Mildly elevated CEA values in CSF may be secondary to passive transfer from the serum in individuals with high serum CEA concentrations.
Some patients who have been exposed to animal antigens, either in the environment or as part of treatment or imaging procedure, may have circulating anti-animal antibodies present. These antibodies may interfere with the assay reagents to produce unreliable results.
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Friday; 6 a.m.- 4 p.m.
Report Available
Same day/1 dayPerforming Laboratory
Mayo Medical Laboratories in Rochester
Test Classification
This test has been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is used per manufacturer's instructions. Performance characteristics were verified by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements.CPT Code Information
82378