ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

Calcitonin : 0070006

Mnemonic: CALCI

Ordering Recommendation: Diagnose and monitor medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). Secondary test to assist in diagnosing multiple endocrine neoplasia type II and familial MTC.
Methodology: Quantitative Chemiluminescent Immunoassay
Performed: Sun-Sat
Reported: 1-2 days
Specimen Required: Collect: Serum separator tube or green (sodium or lithium heparin).

Specimen Preparation: Separate serum or plasma from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection. Transfer 2 mL serum or plasma to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube. (Min: 1 mL)

Storage/Transport Temperature: Refrigerated.

Unacceptable Conditions: Tissue or urine. EDTA plasma. Grossly hemolyzed or lipemic specimens.

Stability (collection to initiation of testing): After separation from cells: Ambient: 8 hours; Refrigerated: 1 week; Frozen: 3 months
Reference Interval:
Male 3 years and older: 0.0-7.5 pg/mL
Female 3 years and older: 0.0-5.1 pg/mL
Interpretive Data: Calcitonin levels greater than 100 pg/mL may occur in the following conditions: medullary thyroid carcinomas (MTC), leukemias, and myeloproliferative disorders.

Provocative testing (calcium) is suggested in patients with MTC if the calcitonin is not clearly diagnostic.

The Siemens Immulite® 2000 method is used.  Results obtained with different assay methods or kits cannot be used interchangeably.  Calcitonin is useful in monitoring medullary thyroid carcinoma.  The calcitonin assay value, regardless of level, should not be interpreted as absolute evidence of the presence or absence of malignant disease.
CPT Code(s): 82308
Cross References: Thyrocalcitonin (Calcitonin)