slight CEA Elevation

[Jenniferp2122]

hi everyone- my father has MBC and is currently on Lynparza / Olaparib to target the BRCA2 gene mutation. He has been on it for 9 months and had a scan that showed complete control over his breast cancer on May 21st (not too long ago at all). The only thing that “lit up” on the scan was his Prostate which led to further MRI imaging and confirmed BPH which is a very benign condition in aging males. His tumor markers have really never been elevated and after getting them checked last week it shows his CEA is 4.7 (less than 3.8 being normal at his lab) and CA 15-3 is 16 (Less than 32 normal at his lab). Concerned about the CEA but thinking it’s from the benign prostate inflammation since it just lit up on the pet scan.

I know a lot of members in this group are women, but my question is- has anyone had an elevated CEA from a totally benign condition in their body?

Thanks so much!

[MettavivorDS]

Tumor markers are affected by inflammation and other conditions in the body. The slight increase in CEA could be related to the prostate. That's a good question to ask at your father's next oncology visit.

[fancydog]

Trends in tumor markers are more important than any single value which may well be prostate related

[13plus in reply to fancydog]

TM don't track according to the cancer's status for everybody

[Hazelgreen]

Hi Jennifer, If you google CEA, you may learn that CEA measures are less accurate than CA measures for breast cancer because CEA also responds to benign body conditions. I hope that will reassure you that your Dad seems to be doing well. Cheers, Cindy