CALCITONIN

The calcitonin test measures the level of calcitonin, a hormone produced by the thyroid gland, in the blood. Calcitonin helps regulate calcium levels in the blood and is used as a marker for medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), a type of thyroid cancer. Elevated calcitonin levels can indicate the presence of MTC or other conditions affecting calcium metabolism. The test is valuable for diagnosing and monitoring MTC, assessing the effectiveness of treatment, and detecting recurrences. It provides important information for managing thyroid health and ensuring early intervention for thyroid cancer.