Tumor marker for suspected medullary thyroid cancer and neuroendocrine tumors
S-Calcitonin is a blood test that measures the levels of the hormone calcitonin, which is produced by the C cells in the thyroid gland. In healthy individuals, calcitonin has a limited role in calcium metabolism, but in certain disease states, levels can rise sharply. The test is primarily used to detect and follow up medullary thyroid cancer, an uncommon form of thyroid cancer.
Elevated calcitonin values can also be seen in other neuroendocrine tumors, such as pheochromocytoma, endocrine pancreatic tumors and endocrine intestinal tumors. The analysis is particularly important in hereditary diseases such as MEN2 syndrome (multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2), where early detection of medullary thyroid cancer is crucial for the prognosis.
Why is an S-Calcitonin analysis performed?
The S-Calcitonin blood test is mainly used for the following purposes:
- Identify and follow up medullary thyroid cancer.
- Investigate suspicious nodules in the thyroid gland.
- Detect neuroendocrine tumors such as pheochromocytoma and endocrine pancreatic tumors.
- Screening family members at hereditary risk for MEN2 syndrome.
- Evaluate treatment results after surgery or other cancer treatment.
When might an S-Calcitonin analysis be appropriate?
A blood test for S-Calcitonin may be recommended for symptoms or findings that raise suspicion of thyroid cancer or other hormone-producing tumors. Examples of situations where the test may be relevant:
- A lump in the neck or an enlarged thyroid gland.
- A family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN2 syndrome.
- Symptoms of hormone overproduction, such as sweating, palpitations, diarrhea or high blood pressure.
- Before or after thyroid surgery.
Interpretation of S-Calcitonin test results
Elevated levels of S-Calcitonin often indicate medullary thyroid cancer, but can also occur with other neuroendocrine tumors. Smaller increases can be seen with kidney failure or certain benign conditions, which is why the result should always be interpreted together with other examinations and the clinical picture.
- Values above 30 pmol/L are strongly suspected of medullary thyroid cancer and should be further investigated by the treating physician.
- Reference range for men is below 3.5 pmol/L
- Reference range for women is below 1.5 pmol/L
