Calcitonin
The test determines the level of calcitonin — the hormone produced by C-cells of the thyroid gland. Calcitonin participates in calcium metabolism regulation, reduces blood calcium concentration, and protects bone tissue. Used for early diagnosis of medullary thyroid cancer, and for monitoring patients after thyroid surgery. Prescribed for suspected C-cell tumors, hereditary medullary cancer, familial endocrine syndromes, and elevated blood calcium.
What the test evaluates:
- Calcitonin concentration in blood serum
- Thyroid C-cell functional state
- Medullary thyroid cancer risk and activity
Biomaterial: Venous blood (serum)
- Draw blood fasting
- Exclude intense physical activity, stress, smoking 24 hours before
- Not recommended immediately after trauma or surgery as this may affect results
Medications:
- Calcium preparations and thyroid-affecting drugs may affect results
- Medication discontinuation only by physician agreement
Recommended for:
- Thyroid diseases and hereditary endocrine syndromes
- Medullary thyroid cancer diagnosis and monitoring
- Detected calcium elevation or suspected endocrine tumors
Elevated calcitonin: may indicate medullary thyroid cancer, C-cell tumors, hereditary endocrine syndromes, or other thyroid pathologies
Normal calcitonin: C-cell activity within normal range
Results interpreted considering age, sex, and associated calcium and PTH tests.
