Calprotectin

The Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) test is a laboratory procedure designed to measure the levels of carcinoembryonic antigen, a protein found in low amounts in healthy adults. This protein is often produced by cancer cells and can be detected in blood and other bodily fluids. The CEA test primarily serves as a tumor marker, aiding in monitoring cancer progression and treatment efficacy. It is particularly useful for cancers such as colorectal, lung, and pancreatic. The test involves drawing a blood sample, which is then analyzed to determine CEA concentration. Minimal preparation is required, though patients should inform their healthcare provider about any medications or smoking habits, as these can affect results. While elevated CEA levels can indicate cancer, they may also result from non-cancerous conditions. Despite its limitations, including variability and potential false positives, the CEA test remains a valuable tool in cancer management, helping guide treatment decisions and monitor for recurrence.

Price of test:£94

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £94

Awaiting result:

One day

Collect material:

Blood

Prepare:

Learn more

Purpose of the test

The Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) test is a laboratory examination used to measure levels of CEA, a protein linked to certain cancers. It serves as a tumor marker, aiding in monitoring cancer progression and treatment response. The test involves analyzing a blood sample to determine CEA concentration. Preparation is minimal, but informing healthcare providers about medications is crucial. Elevated CEA levels can indicate cancer or non-cancerous conditions. Clinical applications include:

- Monitoring cancer treatment effectiveness
- Estimating cancer prognosis
- Detecting cancer recurrence
- Planning treatment strategies

Despite its utility, the test has limitations, such as variability in results and potential false positives.

Who Should Get Tested

The Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) test is essential for monitoring certain cancers. It measures CEA levels, a protein linked to cancer presence and progression. Key points include:

- Purpose: Primarily used to track cancer treatment effectiveness and detect recurrence.
- Procedure: Involves a simple blood draw, with minimal preparation required.
- Interpretation: Elevated levels may indicate cancer or other conditions.
- Applications: Helps in treatment planning and prognosis estimation.
- Limitations: Not specific to cancer; can be influenced by non-cancerous conditions.
- Risks: Minor, including potential bleeding or bruising at the needle site.

Blood Test Preparation Guidelines

Time of day

It is recommended to schedule your appointment for blood tests in the morning hours between 7:00-10:00.

Fasting

It is recommended to fast for approximately 12 hours before blood sampling. The last meal of the previous day should ideally be consumed around 6:00 p.m. On the day before the test, avoid heavy and fatty meals as well as alcohol.

Stay hydrated

Drinking water prior to testing can help with sample collection.

Other factors

Tests should not be performed after a sleepless night or intense physical activity. It is recommended to avoid exercise and stress immediately before blood collection and to not smoke. A short rest is recommended.

Medications and supplements:

Blood samples should be collected before the morning dose. Some drugs can interfere with test results. Consult with your doctor whether you can delay your dose because of lab tests.

Biotin supplements:

High doses of biotin supplements can affect test results, causing false elevation or reduction. It's recommended to avoid taking biotin for at least 72 hours before blood collection. If you are taking biotin, inform the personnel collecting the blood so that they can provide specific instructions.

Interpreting Test Results

Understanding test results is crucial for patients undergoing the Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) test. This test measures CEA levels, a protein linked to certain cancers. Key points include:

- Normal Levels: Typically 0-2.5 ng/mL for nonsmokers; up to 5.0 ng/mL for smokers.
- Elevated Levels: May indicate cancer or non-cancerous conditions like infections or liver disease.
- Clinical Use: Monitors cancer treatment effectiveness, estimates prognosis, detects recurrence, and aids treatment planning.
- Limitations: Not specific to cancer; results can vary due to lab differences and individual factors.

Price of test:£94

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £94

AI-Powered Insights and Expert Validation

Advanced AI Interpretation

Diagu's AI system represents a breakthrough in medical test analysis, employing state-of-the-art algorithms meticulously trained on a vast spectrum of authoritative medical literature and data. This system intricately analyses laboratory test results, extracting nuanced insights that might elude conventional methods. Our AI delves into complex interrelations between various health markers, offering a comprehensive understanding that supports accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning. The foundation of our AI's analytical prowess lies in its extensive training, encompassing data from globally recognised medical journals, trusted healthcare databases, and breakthrough scientific studies. This ensures that every analysis is grounded in the latest and most comprehensive medical knowledge.

Expert Doctor Confirmation

While our AI provides deep analytical insights, the human touch remains indispensable. Every AI-generated interpretation is meticulously reviewed by experienced medical professionals, ensuring a harmonious blend of advanced technology and expert clinical judgment. This dual-layer approach guarantees that the insights provided are not only technologically sophisticated but also clinically relevant. Our medical experts ensure that the AI's interpretations align with current medical standards and practices, adding a layer of validation that only seasoned healthcare professionals can provide. This process reinforces the reliability of the test results, offering peace of mind to both patients and healthcare providers.

Language Model and Trusted Sources

At the core of Diagu's AI system is an advanced language model, engineered to transform complex medical data into clear, comprehensible, and informative descriptions. This model is adept at articulating detailed test analyses in a way that is accessible to both healthcare professionals and patients. The model's development involved the meticulous processing of high-quality sources, including reputable medical websites, renowned medical textbooks, and peer-reviewed research papers. This ensures that the language used in test descriptions is not only accurate and informative but also up-to-date with the latest medical findings and trends. By leveraging this rich tapestry of trusted sources, our AI system provides a deeper understanding of each test, fostering informed decision-making and enhanced patient care.

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