Calcitonin Test

The Calcitonin Test is a blood test used to measure the level of calcitonin hormone in the blood. Calcitonin is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland and involved in the regulation of calcium levels in the body. This test is mainly used to detect and monitor medullary thyroid cancer (MTC), a rare type of thyroid cancer that affects the calcitonin-producing cells of the thyroid gland. The test is also used to monitor treatment effectiveness and to check for cancer recurrence in people who have undergone thyroid surgery.

High levels of calcitonin in the blood may indicate the presence of MTC or other conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, kidney disease, or lung cancer. The test involves drawing a blood sample and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. It is important to follow any specific instructions provided by the healthcare provider regarding fasting or other preparation for the test.