CEA level went from 1.3 to 2.4 - should I be worried?

Godlistens

Hi ladies, I haven't been here in awhile but I always turn to you when I need consoling or for advice.  YOu sometimes know more than the doctors!  My oncologist does bloodwork every six months when I go for my regular appointments. My results from this round of bloodwork were normal.  However, I had a copy of the report faxed to me.  Six months ago, my CEA level was 1.3, this time it is 2.4.  That is almost double although it is still within the normal range.  Also, my onc. changed labs, and I noticed the normal range is different than the prior lab....

I would appreciate any input on this.......should I be concerned? Dr. says everything is normal. 

marbletop

My oncologist says as long as the test in in normal range, don't worry. These markers can vary and also with changing labs. . My oncologist doesn't do the CEA but does the CA-15 and my numbers always vary a couple of points. It's scary when numbers change , I don't like it either. I too had IDC, Stage 1 in 2007. Good luck to you!

Godlistens

Cellist, thank you....it's always nice to hear some reassuring words!.....As I'm sure you know, there is no peace of mind with this disease!!  Good luck to you too! I assume you play the cello....

nikola

Hi,

my onc nurse told me my went from 1.4 to 1.8 (same lab) and my onc was upset she told me that. I was concerned++, he was not.

armadillo1

I am 10 years from dx and was Stage IIb, had only sentinel node as positive with 14 nodes removed.  Had a bi-later mastectomy.  6 cat and 37 weeks of rads.  Now the CEA went up from 3.6 to 4.6 in 6 months.  Dr. wants me to have a colonoscopy, of course, how cannot I now worry?  I had my last colonoscopy 2.5 years ago with no polyps...so I am needless to say concerned.  Jan 18 I will have the procedure done and will go on from there.

Godlistens

Armadillo1 - are you OK???