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Calcitonin

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

Calcitonin is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that helps regulate calcium levels in the blood. It is primarily used as a diagnostic marker for medullary thyroid cancer.

Quick summary

Calcitonin is a thyroid hormone measured to diagnose medullary thyroid cancer.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
pg/mL
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
quantitative
FDA-cleared
Roche Calcitonin, Abbott Calcitonin, Siemens Calcitonin
interpretation: {"text":"Calcitonin levels between 0–10 pg/mL are considered within the normal range.","label":"Normal"}; {"text":"Levels above 10 pg/mL may indicate medullary thyroid cancer or other conditions such as hyperparathyroidism or renal failure.","label":"Elevated"}

Calcitonin is a 32-amino acid peptide hormone secreted by the parafollicular cells (C cells) of the thyroid gland. Its primary function is to inhibit osteoclast activity in the bones, thereby reducing calcium levels in the blood.

The measurement of calcitonin levels in the blood is crucial for the diagnosis of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC), a rare type of thyroid cancer that originates from the C cells. Elevated levels of calcitonin are often indicative of MTC.

In addition to its diagnostic utility, calcitonin levels can also be monitored during treatment to assess the effectiveness of therapy and to detect recurrence of MTC.

Frequently asked questions

What is the normal range for calcitonin levels?
The normal range for calcitonin levels is typically between 0–10 pg/mL.
What does a high calcitonin level mean?
A high calcitonin level may indicate medullary thyroid cancer, hyperparathyroidism, or renal failure.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus: CalcitoninSource
  2. 2
    American Thyroid Association: Medullary Thyroid CancerSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

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If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy