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Calcitonin Test: What is it Used to Detect and Preparation

Calcitonin Test: What is it Used to Detect and Preparation

Let’s begin with some of the points by which you can get the all information about the calcitonin test with the help of table of the contents.

The calcitonin test is a test that is used to measure the level of calcitonin hormone in blood. A hormone that regulates calcium levels. A healthcare that regulates calcium levels is also famous for providing a calcitonin test for several reasons which I am going to show below.

Let’s begin with some of the points by which you can get the all information about the calcitonin test with the help of table of the contents:

Why Is The Test Used?

A calcitonin test is used to help diagnose and monitor medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) and C-cell hyperplasia and to screen out for MTC in people with a family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia.

Why should you get tests?

Calcitonin helps control the breakdown and rebuild of bone. A common reason to have this test is if you had surgery to remove a thyroid tumour called medullary thyroid cancer and if you had any symptoms of medullary thyroid cancer, such as a lump in the neck, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing and if you have previously been diagnosed with medullary thyroid cancer and are being monitored for recurrence and this test also allows your health to get to know about thyroid or a bone surgery that you have done before.

How to Prepare for the Calcitonin Test?

Usually,y there is nothing like special preparation for this test. It's always best to consult with your doctor and follow their specific instructions. In some cases, you may be asked to fast (not to eat) and (not to drink) even for a few hours before the blood draw.
Your doctor might be told to stop taking certain medicines that could interface with the test results.

Here are some of the tests that you can do in the calcitonin test.

What Are the Effects of the Calcitonin Test

The calcitonin test doesn't have direct effects on your body. It's a simple blood test that measures the level of calcitonin, a hormone produced by the thyroid gland.

Here are some of the effects that you can expect during and after the test.

  • Blood Draw: A healthcare professional or a doctor will draw blood from a vein in your arm.
  • Minimum Discomfort: You may feel a slight scar when a needle is inserted.
  • No Side Effects: There are typically no side effects associated with the test

Conclusion

The calcitonin is the test used to measure the hormone of calcitonin, this hormone is responsible for the regulation of calcium levels in the blood. It is primarily used to diagnose and monitor medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) and C-cell hyperplasia. The test involves a simple blood draw, and there are typically no special preparations or side effects associated with it.

Some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What happens if calcitonin is high?

The higher the level the more likely it is that you have medullary thyroid cancer or C-cell hyperplasia. but high calcitonin levels may be caused by other conditions, including certain other cancers, certain medicines and pregnancy.

What level of CA indicates cancer?

Above 35 units/ml is considered to be a high CA-125 level.

What is the cost of the calcitonin test?

The cost of a calcitonin test in India depends on the location and healthcare facility.

What Happens if calcitonin is low?

A lack of calcitonin in the blood may increase a person’s risk of bone degradation and osteopenia.