Tumor markers

Axolotl

Hi everyone,

My oncologist regularly tests my CEA and CA 15.3 levels. My CA 15.3 levels vary slightly each time but are well within the normal range. Here are some of my CEA levels over the last few months or so:

2.0 on 28/5/2019

4.3 on 21/8/2019

4.7 on 20/12/2019

5.3 on 19/2/2020

I'm freaked out by the results since August. My oncologist is going to do the blood work again in 4 weeks. What could be causing the elevation? I realize these are not super high, but they are above normal. I don't smoke.

I changed to a whole food plant based diet in October, and I regularly train for and run half marathons. Not sure if either of these would have any impact.

trinigirl50

CEA levels can go up due to inflammation but it's worth checking with your oncologist if it keeps steadily rising.

KBeee

Inflammation can cause them to rise for sure. Most oncologists don't do them for that reason, but definitely call and ask questions!