Thyroid Cancer Marker Test
If your calcitonin levels were high, it may mean you have C-cell hyperplasia or medullary thyroid cancer. If you are already being treated for this thyroid cancer, high levels may mean the treatment is not working or that cancer has returned after treatment.
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How our test process works!
Overview
The calcitonin test measures the level of calcitonin, a hormone secreted by the thyroid gland. Calcitonin plays a role in calcium metabolism, but its primary clinical use is as a tumor marker for medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) and other conditions affecting the thyroid.
Risk Assessment
The test is typically used to:
Diagnose and monitor MTC (a rare type of thyroid cancer).
Screen individuals with a family history of MTC (linked to MEN 2 syndromes).
Assess cases of hyperplasia of C-cells (precancerous changes in the thyroid).
Evaluate potential thyroid nodules for malignancy.
Risk factors for medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) include:
Genetic predisposition (e.g., MEN 2A, MEN 2B).
Thyroid nodules or goiter.
Elevated serum calcitonin levels (may indicate MTC or C-cell hyperplasia).
Normal Range
Normal calcitonin levels vary based on age, sex, and laboratory methods:
| Group | Reference Range (pg/mL) |
|---|---|
| Men | < 8–10 pg/mL |
| Women | < 5 pg/mL |
| Children | < 10 pg/mL |
Elevated levels may not always indicate cancer—additional tests are required for diagnosis.
Interpretation of Results
| Calcitonin Level | Possible Indication |
|---|---|
| Normal | No significant thyroid abnormality |
| Mildly Elevated | Could indicate C-cell hyperplasia, chronic kidney disease, or use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) |
| Moderately to Highly Elevated | Strongly suggests medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or C-cell hyperplasia |
| Markedly High (>100 pg/mL) | Almost always indicative of MTC or metastatic disease |
Sample Type
Blood Sample
- Collected via venipuncture (arm vein).
- No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be recommended in some cases.
Frequently Asked Question
Calcitonin
Thyroid Cancer Marker Test
If your calcitonin levels were high, it may mean you have C-cell hyperplasia or medullary thyroid cancer. If you are already being treated for this thyroid cancer, high levels may mean the treatment is not working or that cancer has returned after treatment.
Covid Safety
Assured
Free Report
Counselling