CEA Blood Test | London Blood Tests UK

Measure carcinoembryonic antigen levels with our CEA blood test for £68. UKAS-accredited analysis, fast results, optional GP consultation.

The Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) Blood Test measures levels of CEA, a tumour marker used primarily to monitor certain cancers and assess disease progression or recurrence. Available for £68, analysed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory, with results typically ready within 3–5 business days and an optional GP consultation for interpretation.

What is a Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) Test?

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a protein normally produced during fetal development. In healthy adults, CEA levels are usually very low. Elevated levels can occur in certain cancers, particularly colorectal cancer, as well as cancers of the pancreas, stomach, lung, breast, and ovary.

The CEA test is not used as a screening tool for cancer in the general population. Instead, it is most valuable for monitoring known cancers, assessing response to treatment, and detecting possible recurrence after therapy.

CEA levels can also be mildly elevated in non-cancerous conditions such as smoking, liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and pancreatitis. For this reason, results must always be interpreted in clinical context.

Benefits of the CEA Blood Test

1. Monitors Cancer Treatment Response
   Falling CEA levels often indicate effective treatment, while rising levels may suggest disease progression.

2. Detects Possible Cancer Recurrence
   Serial CEA testing can identify recurrence earlier than symptoms alone.

3. Supports Clinical Decision-Making
   Helps clinicians determine whether imaging or further investigations are needed.

4. Useful in Colorectal Cancer Follow-Up
   CEA is one of the most widely used tumour markers in colorectal cancer surveillance.

5. Simple and Non-Invasive
   Requires only a standard blood sample.

6. Tracks Disease Over Time
   Trends in CEA values are more meaningful than single measurements.

7. Optional GP Consultation for Interpretation
   Results can be reviewed with a GP to explain significance and next steps.

Why Do I Need a CEA Blood Test?

You may be advised to have a CEA test if you:

• Are being treated for a known cancer

• Have completed cancer treatment and require monitoring

• Have rising or unexplained tumour marker levels

• Need follow-up after surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy

• Require assessment alongside imaging results

CEA testing is not recommended as a standalone cancer screening test in individuals without a known diagnosis.

How the Test Works

In-Clinic Blood Test

1. Book Your Appointment

   • Book online or by phone — no referral required.

2. Pre-Test Preparation

   • No fasting required.

   • Inform the clinician if you smoke or have liver disease.

3. Blood Sample Collection

   • A qualified phlebotomist collects a venous blood sample.

4. Sample Handling

   • The sample is transported to a UKAS-accredited laboratory.

5. Laboratory Analysis

   • CEA is measured using high-sensitivity immunoassay methods.

6. Quality Control

   • Strict internal and external checks ensure accuracy.

7. Results Delivery

   • Results are typically available within 3–5 business days.

8. Optional GP Consultation

   • Discuss results and follow-up strategy with a GP if required.

At-Home Blood Draw (Home or Hotel Service)

1. Book a Home Visit

   • Choose a convenient UK-wide location.

2. Professional Phlebotomist Visit

   • A certified phlebotomist attends your home or hotel.

3. Blood Collection

   • A venous blood sample is collected safely and professionally.

4. Courier to Laboratory

   • Samples are transported the same day.

5. Analysis & Reporting

   • CEA levels are analysed promptly.

6. Optional GP Review

   • Results can be reviewed with a GP if needed.

Your CEA Test Results – Explained

CEA levels are reported in ng/mL.

Typical UK Reference Ranges

• Non-smokers: < 3.0 ng/mL

• Smokers: < 5.0 ng/mL

Interpretation

• Normal CEA
  Suggests no significant elevation; does not exclude cancer.

• Mildly Elevated CEA
  May be seen in smokers, liver disease, or inflammatory conditions.

• Markedly Elevated or Rising CEA
  May indicate cancer progression or recurrence and requires further investigation.

Trend over time is more clinically relevant than a single result.