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Are CEA Blood Tests Effective At Diagnosing Cancer?

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Posted on Wed, 22 Nov 2017
Twitter Wed, 22 Nov 2017 Answered on
Twitter Thu, 26 Apr 2018 Last reviewed on
Question : My cea was 31 and pet scan shows no cancer
My blood sugars have been high since I finished my chemo for colon cancer and my thyroid numbers are out of whack too. Can these factors effect the cea number?
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Answered by Dr. Sunil (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
yes they effect level directly.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
The CEA blood test is not reliable for diagnosing cancer or as a screening test for early detection of cancer especially in patient with other health conditions.Its levels are directly effected by hypo or hyperthroidism.
Therefore in your case its not reliable.

Thank you.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
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Dr. Sunil

Gastroenterologist

Practicing since :1982

Answered : 351 Questions

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Are CEA Blood Tests Effective At Diagnosing Cancer?

Brief Answer: yes they effect level directly. Detailed Answer: Hi, The CEA blood test is not reliable for diagnosing cancer or as a screening test for early detection of cancer especially in patient with other health conditions.Its levels are directly effected by hypo or hyperthroidism. Therefore in your case its not reliable. Thank you.