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CARCINOEMRRYONIC ANTIGEN
Author(s) -
Moloney J. P.
Publication year - 1972
Publication title -
medical journal of australia
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.904
H-Index - 131
eISSN - 1326-5377
pISSN - 0025-729X
DOI - 10.5694/j.1326-5377.1972.tb47162.x
Subject(s) - radioimmunoassay , antigen , medicine , pathology , cancer , tumor associated antigen , immunology , immunotherapy
In 1964, Gold and Freedman reported results which Indicated the presence of a tumour antigen associated with colonic adenocarcinomata. This antigen was termed “carcinœmbryonic antigen” (CEA). Further experiments supported the possibility that the antigen was tumour‐specific, and a radioimmunoassay was developed to detect CEA In human serum. A potential for clinical use was demonstrated. This article briefly explores the concept of tumour‐specific antigens by presenting an introductory account of the finding of tumour‐specific antigens in animals. This is followed by a general outline of the search for tumour antigens In humans. CEA Is discussed in some detail, before its possible use in the diagnosis and therapy of gastrointestinal carcinoma Is considered. It is concluded that the radioimmunoassay for CEA should provl'e diagnostic and prognostic assistance, provided that caution is used in interpretation, especially in the case of patients with severe liver disease, renal failure, or other cancers. CEA is a normal constituent of gastro‐lntestinal tract tissue. It may be secreted in increased amounts in certain neoplastic states and in other disorders associated with rapid cellular proliferation.