Background: Liver metastasis is the most common distant spread in colorectal adenocarcinoma and significantly contributes to mortality. Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is widely used as a tumor biomarker, although its role in metastatic colorectal cancer remains debated. This study aimed to evaluate CEA levels in colorectal adenocarcinoma patients with liver metastasis.
Methods: Adult patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma and confirmed liver metastasis at a tertiary center were analyzed. Serum CEA levels, demographic characteristics, and tumor-related variables were collected. Associations between CEA levels and clinical characteristics were assessed.
Results: Elevated CEA levels (≥5 µg/L) were observed in most patients with liver metastasis. Higher CEA values were associated with advanced disease and tumor burden. Variations were observed according to age, sex, and tumor location.
Conclusion: CEA levels were elevated in colorectal adenocarcinoma patients with liver metastasis. Although not specific, CEA remains a useful biomarker for disease evaluation and monitoring when interpreted alongside clinical findings.1–8