Fetal antigens in retinoblastoma

Plasma carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and alpha fetoprotein (AFP) levels were studied in five patients with retinoblastoma. CEA and AFP were found elevated in four of five patients prior to therapy. Following enucleation and/or radiation therapy, the elevated values were significantly lowered. This preliminary study suggests that CEA and AFP levels may be of value in the diagnosis of retinoblastoma, and that serial CEA levels may be useful in evaluation of retinoblastoma patients after treatment.