Calcitonin blood test
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What is Calcitonin Blood Test?
A calcitonin blood test is used to measure the amount of the hormone calcitonin present in a patient’s blood. Calcitonin is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that helps regulate the balance of calcium and phosphorus in the blood. It is produced in response to rising levels of calcium in the blood.
Preparation
No special preparation . is necessary for the calcitonin test. You may be asked to fast for eight to twelve hours before the test, however.
Procedure
A blood sample of about 3 to 5 milliliters is typically taken from a vein in the arm or elbow. The blood will be collected in a vial and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results should be available within 48 to 72 hours.
Types of Calcitonin Test
There are two main types of calcitonin tests that may be used: serum calcitonin and ionized calcium.
- Serum Calcitonin – This test measures the amount of calcitonin in the blood.
- Ionized Calcium – This test measures the level of calcium in the blood that is in an ionized state, which is the form that calcium takes when it is actively used by the body for functions such as muscle contraction and nerve impulse transmission.
Uses
A calcitonin test may be ordered by your doctor if they suspect you have a condition known as primary hyperparathyroidism, which is characterized by high levels of calcium in the blood. It may also be ordered if your doctor suspects you have certain types of cancer, including medullary thyroid cancer.
Risks
A calcitonin test is generally considered a safe procedure. There are some risks associated with having blood drawn, including minor discomfort or bruising at the site of needle insertion. Tell your doctor if you have any allergies or if you are taking any medications that may affect the results of the test.
Why It Is Performed?
The calcitonin test is typically ordered when a doctor suspects or wants to confirm a diagnosis of primary hyperparathyroidism or to help in the diagnosis of certain types of cancer, such as medullary thyroid cancer. It may also be ordered to track the progress of therapy or to monitor recurrence of a condition.
When To Get Tested?
If your doctor suspects you have primary hyperparathyroidism or certain cancers, they may order a calcitonin test. It is typically ordered when other tests suggest that the hormones produced by the thyroid or parathyroid glands are out of balance.
