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What Causes Fluctuations In CEA Levels While Having Colon Cancer?

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Posted on Mon, 29 Aug 2016
Question: I had colon cancer surgery in March 2016. There were 12 out of 37 lymph nodes that showed cancer following surgery. I elected to have immunotherapy as an alternative to chemotherapy. My CEA after immunotherapy at the end of May was 3.5. On July 1st my CEA was 3.7. I just had the CEA takend last Friday, August 5th and it was 4.0. Does this mean that the cancer has returned or is somewhere else in my body?
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Answered by Dr. Dr. Yogesh D (6 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Serially increasing CEA levels indicate recurrence consult your oncosurgeon

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Thank you for posting your health query here.

The CEA levels that are increasing over time after immunotherapy indicate a recurrence of the cancer. It could be in the same area or it could be at a different site. This can be best identified with the help of a PET scan. Kindly consult with your treating oncosurgeon and follow her/his advice.

Wishing you good health and good luck.

Warm regards.
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Yogesh D

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2009

Answered : 1120 Questions

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What Causes Fluctuations In CEA Levels While Having Colon Cancer?

Brief Answer: Serially increasing CEA levels indicate recurrence consult your oncosurgeon Detailed Answer: Hello, Thank you for posting your health query here. The CEA levels that are increasing over time after immunotherapy indicate a recurrence of the cancer. It could be in the same area or it could be at a different site. This can be best identified with the help of a PET scan. Kindly consult with your treating oncosurgeon and follow her/his advice. Wishing you good health and good luck. Warm regards.