Re: CEA tests and levels

From: J (tradition_at_example.net)
Date: 09/16/04 

Date: Thu, 16 Sep 2004 06:03:11 -0400

Steph wrote:

> "DMB" <dbonacci1@verizon.net> wrote in message
> news:9bd8804e.0409150734.4668c400@posting.google.com...
> > My father had a CEA test in Dec 03, the level was 5. Almost a year
> > later, and after having surgery to cure Anal/Rectal cancer (colostomy
> > now), his level is a 17. He also had his gall bladder removed roughly
> > 3 months ago, which I read could increase the levels of a CEA test. I
> > have read various articles regarding the accuracy of the CEA test and
> > how many times they show false positives and false negatives. He takes
> > numerous meds being a diabetic, as well as epogen shots. He's
> > scheduled for a CT Scan later this week as a follow-up/precaution. Is
> > this level a cause for true concern? I'm not sure what the marker was
> > prior to his surgery in mid February. Has anyone ever seen high levels
> > with no problems? Thanks for your input!
> >
> > Dave B
>
> Levels above 10 almost always mean recurrent disease

Hi Steph,
Would he have had the "lower" colostomy shown here?
http://www.pedisurg.com/PtEduc/Colostomy.htm
If so, would (one of ) the most likely places of recurrence be in the upper
colon?
J