Reference Intervals of Alpha-Fetoprotein and Carcinoembryonic Antigen in the Apparently Healthy Population

Abstract

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to calculate 95% reference intervals and double-sided limits of serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) according to the CLSI EP28-A3 guideline.Material/MethodsSerum AFP and CEA values were measured in samples from 26 000 healthy subjects in the Shuyang area receiving general health checkups. The 95% reference intervals and upper limits were calculated by using MedCalc.ResultsWe provided continuous reference intervals from 20 years old to 90 years old for AFP and CEA. The reference intervals were: AFP, 1.31–7.89 ng/ml (males) and 1.01–7.10 ng/ml (females); CEA, 0.51–4.86 ng/ml (males) and 0.35–3.45ng/ml (females). AFP and CEA were significantly positively correlated with age in both males (r=0.196 and r=0.198) and females (r=0.121 and r=0.197).ConclusionsDifferent races or populations and different detection systems may result in different reference intervals for AFP and CEA. Continuous reference intervals of age changes are more accurate than age groups.

Comparison of chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) with electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA) for Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)

“…In our study, we compared two widely used automated CEA assays. 80% of healthy subjects have CEA concentration <3 ng/mL (13). In Architect CMIA and Cobas ECLIA based on the Levey-Jennings quality control test report, was <2 SD.…”

Determination of Reference Interval of Tumour Markers in Kahramanmaraş Region, Turkey

“…In a previous research, Qin et al reported an upper limit of 4.76 IU/ml for AFP in male individuals residing in a defined area in China (21). Zhang et al reported an upper limit of 7.51 IU/ml for AFP (22). The authors have attributed varying upper limits to the different methodologies used in the studies.…”

“…Reference interval in tumour markers reference intervals (upper limit) for Zhuang ethnic males was 5.12 ng/mL for CEA (30). Zhang et al reported an upper limit of 4.53ng/ml for CEA (22). Researchers show that the reference interval is changed by gender, smoking, ethnicity and different detection systems.…”

Reference intervals of carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 in the apparently healthy adult population

“…The Ethics Committee of Shuyang People's Hospital approved this study. Reference samples were chosen according to CLSI CA28‐A3 guideline and a previous report …”