CEA is an oncofetal antigen gene product associated with which of the following cancers?

CEA is an oncofetal antigen gene product associated with which of the following cancers?

• A. Colorectal cancer
• B. Renal cell carcinoma
• C. Melanoma
• D. Thyroid cancer

Answer: (A)

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is indeed an oncofetal antigen primarily associated with colorectal cancer. It is a glycoprotein involved in cellular adhesion and is normally produced in fetal tissue and certain glandular tissues. In adults, the expression of CEA is typically low, but it is elevated in various malignancies, particularly colorectal cancer. The use of CEA levels as a tumor marker is particularly significant in monitoring treatment response and detecting recurrence in patients with colorectal cancer. Although elevated levels might also be seen in other conditions such as lung cancer and inflammatory diseases, its strongest association remains with colorectal malignancies. The capacity of CEA to serve as a biomarker underscores its relevance in the context of colorectal cancer diagnosis and management, validating the choice made.

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is indeed an oncofetal antigen primarily associated with colorectal cancer. It is a glycoprotein involved in cellular adhesion and is normally produced in fetal tissue and certain glandular tissues. In adults, the expression of CEA is typically low, but it is elevated in various malignancies, particularly colorectal cancer.

The use of CEA levels as a tumor marker is particularly significant in monitoring treatment response and detecting recurrence in patients with colorectal cancer. Although elevated levels might also be seen in other conditions such as lung cancer and inflammatory diseases, its strongest association remains with colorectal malignancies. The capacity of CEA to serve as a biomarker underscores its relevance in the context of colorectal cancer diagnosis and management, validating the choice made.