Thyroid
Tumour Marker for Medullary Thyroid Cancer (Calcitonin)
Thyroid
S-Calcitonin measures the level of calcitonin, a hormone produced by the C cells of the thyroid gland, used primarily in the evaluation of medullary thyroid carcinoma.
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Calcitonin is a peptide hormone produced by the parafollicular C cells of the thyroid gland. It plays a role in calcium and bone metabolism by opposing the action of parathyroid hormone. Clinically, the calcitonin blood test is most commonly used as a tumour marker for medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), a rare type of thyroid cancer originating in the C cells. It may also be ordered when evaluating thyroid nodules or monitoring patients after thyroid cancer treatment.
Calcitonin testing is indicated when medullary thyroid carcinoma is suspected, when thyroid nodules require further evaluation, or for ongoing surveillance in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) syndromes. It is also used postoperatively to monitor for recurrence after thyroid cancer surgery.
What a high value can mean
Elevated calcitonin levels may indicate medullary thyroid carcinoma, C-cell hyperplasia, or other conditions that stimulate C-cell activity. The degree of elevation often correlates with tumour size and burden. Mildly elevated levels can sometimes be caused by other factors, including chronic kidney disease, other cancers, and certain medications. A significantly raised calcitonin warrants further investigation, including imaging and potential biopsy.
What a low value can mean
Low or undetectable calcitonin levels are considered normal and indicate that C-cell activity is within the expected range. After successful treatment for medullary thyroid carcinoma, low calcitonin is a favourable indicator suggesting no residual disease.
No special preparation is needed. Bring valid identification to your appointment.
Order your test
Choose your test and pay online. Your lab referral is created straight away.
Give your sample
Visit any of our partner sampling locations. No appointment needed at most of them.
The lab analyses it
Your sample is analysed at an accredited Swedish laboratory.
Get your results
Your values appear in your account with reference ranges and an explanation of each marker.
While calcitonin is best known as a marker for medullary thyroid carcinoma, mildly elevated levels can occur with C-cell hyperplasia, chronic kidney disease, and certain other conditions. The clinical significance depends on the degree of elevation and the patient's overall clinical picture.
Most thyroid tests (TSH, T4, T3) evaluate thyroid hormone production and metabolism. Calcitonin is not a thyroid hormone test; it specifically assesses C-cell activity in the thyroid and is used primarily in cancer screening and monitoring.
Yes. After surgery for medullary thyroid carcinoma, calcitonin levels are monitored regularly. A decline to undetectable levels suggests successful treatment, while rising levels may indicate recurrence or residual disease.