Calcitonin blood test
Quick answer: A calcitonin test measures a hormone made by special cells in the thyroid. Doctors order it to help diagnose and follow medullary thyroid cancer, or when this cancer runs in the family.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testYour doctor may ask you to fast; follow the instructions given.
How the test is done
- 1You may be asked to fast before the test
- 2The skin over a vein is cleaned
- 3A needle draws blood into a chilled tube
- 4The sample is kept cold and sent to the lab promptly
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Normal ranges differ between labs and by age and sex, so discuss your result with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A high level can be seen with medullary thyroid cancer and a related inherited condition, and sometimes with kidney disease, smoking or some medicines. Your doctor reads it with your thyroid scan and history.
Who usually has this test
People with a thyroid lump being checked for medullary thyroid cancer, people with a family history of it, and people followed after treatment.
Risks and aftercare
A small bruise may form; there is nothing else to do afterwards.
Names and options
Also called: calcitonin
Listed by the hospital as
- CALCITONIN
Questions about this test
Is calcitonin the same as other thyroid tests?
No. TSH and T4 check how the thyroid is working. Calcitonin comes from different thyroid cells and is used mainly to look for medullary thyroid cancer.
Why might calcitonin be tested in my family?
Some medullary thyroid cancers run in families with an inherited gene change. Doctors may test relatives and suggest genetic testing.
Can other conditions raise calcitonin?
Yes. Kidney disease, some medicines that reduce stomach acid, smoking and other tumours can raise it.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.