THEantigen carcinoembryonic (ACE) is a protein which plays a role in cell adhesion and recognition. It is normally present in the fetus during the first 6 months of the pregnancy, hence its name.

In adults, its presence in small amounts is normal, but an increase in the level is a marker of certain cancers, in particular colorectal cancer (adenocarcinoma).

CEA is also associated with several other cancers, but it is not a “perfect” marker: it is not necessarily a sign that cancer is present.

The dosage is done on a blood sample, is performed by a venipuncture usually at the bend of the elbow.

The ACE test is primarily used to ensure that colorectal cancer does not come back after surgical resection. It also makes it possible to judge the effectiveness of the treatment in the event of cancer. It is not recommended for screening for colorectal cancer.

As a guide, normal blood ACE values ​​are between 2,5 and 5 μg / L.

The presence of ACE in small amounts in adults is not abnormal. ACE is also found in some non-sick people. It is known, for example, that approximately 3% of the population has a high blood level of carcinoembryonic antigen. Smokers, too, have high values.

An increase is also observed in some cases of chronic inflammatory diseases of the lung and intestine, in cases of cirrhosis or renal failure.

Although it is mainly a marker of cancer colorectal, we can also see an increase in its concentration in case of breast, lung, ovarian, uterine or medullary thyroid cancer.