Diseases Linked to Calcitonin: What High Levels Reveal

Calcitonin and Its Role in Thyroid-Related Conditions

Did you know your thyroid produces a hormone that helps keep your bones strong and your blood calcium in check? That hormone is calcitonin, which is often overlooked but vital. While it does not directly cause diseases, abnormal levels can be an early warning sign of thyroid cancer or endocrine disorders.

So, could your hormone levels be telling you more than you think? Let us read the details below to know more.

Diseases Caused by Abnormal Calcitonin Levels in the Body

Following are the diseases you can get with abnormal calcitonin levels in your body:

1. Medullary Thyroid Cancer (MTC)

Medullary thyroid cancer is a rare but aggressive form of thyroid cancer that originates in the C-cells. These cancerous cells release excessive amounts of calcitonin, which can be detected through blood tests. Early diagnosis is crucial, as MTC can spread to lymph nodes and other organs.

Symptoms may include:

• A lump or swelling in the neck
• Throat pain
• Persistent cough without cold
• Hoarseness or voice changes
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Swollen lymph nodes
• In some cases, persistent diarrhoea, due to hormone secretion by the tumour
   

2. C-Cell Hyperplasia

C-cell hyperplasia is a non-cancerous overgrowth of the C-cells in the thyroid gland. Although benign, this condition can precede or coexist with medullary thyroid cancer, particularly in individuals with a genetic predisposition, such as those with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2 (MEN 2).

Monitoring of calcitonin levels is vital in such individuals to detect malignant changes early.

What are the Normal Calcitonin Levels?

Calcitonin levels may vary based on gender and laboratory reference ranges. In general:

• In males, normal calcitonin levels are generally very low. With modern testing methods, a normal level is typically below 10 pg/mL. .
• In females, levels are typically less than 20 pg/mL.
   

It is important to note that values may differ slightly depending on the laboratory and testing methods used. Therefore, one should always refer to the specific reference range mentioned in the test report.

What Happens if Calcitonin Levels Are Low?

Low calcitonin levels are not generally associated with any health concerns. Individuals who have undergone a thyroidectomy (removal of the thyroid gland) often have undetectable calcitonin levels, yet maintain normal blood calcium balance through the actions of other hormones such as parathyroid hormone (PTH) and vitamin D.

Symptoms That Warrant a Calcitonin Test

While calcitonin abnormalities may not cause direct symptoms, certain clinical signs and genetic predispositions necessitate testing. These include:

Symptoms of medullary thyroid cancer or C-cell hyperplasia, such as:

• Neck lump
• Throat pain
• Swollen glands
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Voice changes
• Chronic cough
• Persistent or unexplained diarrhoea
   

Signs of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2 (MEN 2), including:

• Bone and joint pain
• Fatigue and depression
• High blood pressure
• Headaches
• Heart palpitations
• Excessive sweating
• Nausea and vomiting
• Frequent urination or increased thirst
   

Individuals with a family history of MEN 2 or medullary thyroid cancer are at higher genetic risk and should undergo routine screening and genetic counselling. Genetic testing for RET proto-oncogene mutations may also be advised.

What Test Measures Calcitonin Levels?

A simple blood test measures calcitonin levels. It is usually recommended when:

• Thyroid nodules or other related symptoms are present.
• A family history of MTC or MEN 2 exists.
• Doctors are monitoring treatment progress for diagnosed medullary thyroid cancer.
   

The procedure carries minimal risk, and any discomfort from the blood draw typically resolves quickly.

Calcitonin is not harmful in itself but can indicate serious conditions like medullary thyroid cancer or C-cell hyperplasia. While low levels pose little concern, high levels need medical evaluation. Individuals with symptoms or a family history of endocrine disorders should seek timely testing, as early detection significantly improves outcomes.