Calcitonin

Pathology category

Biochemistry - referred tests

Code

CALN

Referral code

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Test information

Used for diagnosis and follow up of medullary carcinoma of thyroid. Can be used as a screening test in relatives of patients with medullary Ca Moderate increases of calcitonin may be seen in pregnancy, renal failure and pernicious anaemia Used to screen patients for MEN 2

Guidelines

Pre-analytical

There is no need for the patient to be fasting. Sample should be sent to the lab and separated within 15min of collection.

Reference range

< 18.9 ng/L

Tube type

Tube type info

SST or plain on ice

Special requirements

Serum

Minimum volume

1 mL

Assay frequency

TAT Inpatient (urgent)

TAT Inpatient

4 weeks

TAT GP/Outpatient

4 weeks

Referral lab

Dept of Clinical Chemistry (Metabolic Medicine), Hammersmith Hospital