@alicefive, I can imagine that you are worried. Any lab value that triples is a concern. As you know, monitoring carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) can be useful in monitoring for possible recurrence. However, one test with an abnormal result does not prove that the cancer has returned. Further testing is required.

Yeah, right. Easy to say, but the worry is still there. I get it.

Here's some information from Mayo Clinic Laboratories that may help put your mind slightly at ease until you are able to repeat the CEA test.
- Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA), Serum https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/overview/8521

1. "Single values of CEA are less informative than changes assessed over time." This means that the test you had could be an outlier. Your doctor will likely order a second test to confirm.
2. "Carcinoembryonic antigen values are method-dependent; therefore, the same method should be used to serially monitor patients." Was the test done at the same lab, done the same way?
3. "Do not interpret serum CEA levels as absolute evidence of the presence or the absence of malignant disease. Use serum CEA in conjunction with information from the clinical evaluation of the patient and other diagnostic procedures." Further testing is necessary.
4. CEA is not exclusively specific to cancer. Non-cancerous conditions such as inflammation, cirrhosis, ulcerative colitis, and heavy smoking can also cause temporary elevations.

Alice, waiting is hard. When do you meet with your doctor to discuss the results of the test?