Calcitonin Level Test in Kathmandu

About this test

Calcitonin is a hormone secreted by the parafollicular C-cells of the thyroid gland, and measuring it serves a very specific purpose: it is the key tumour marker for medullary thyroid carcinoma, a less common cancer that arises from exactly those C-cells. Unlike most thyroid tests, this is not part of routine thyroid screening. A doctor usually orders it when a thyroid nodule has been found on ultrasound or fine-needle aspiration that raises suspicion of medullary cancer, when there is a family history of the disease or of multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN type 2), or to monitor someone already treated for medullary carcinoma for any recurrence after surgery. A markedly raised level points strongly towards C-cell disease, and the figure often correlates with tumour bulk, so it is interpreted alongside neck ultrasound, the CEA tumour marker, and sometimes genetic testing for the RET mutation that runs in affected families. Mildly elevated readings are far less alarming and can stem from kidney impairment, certain medicines such as proton-pump inhibitors, smoking, or other causes, which is why a single borderline result is rarely acted on in isolation; a stimulation test or repeat sampling may follow. In Nepal, where thyroid nodules are common and access to specialist endocrine surgery is concentrated in Kathmandu, this test helps decide in advance whether a nodule needs the more extensive surgery that medullary cancer demands. Because calcitonin levels are sensitive to handling, the sample must reach the laboratory promptly.

Sample type

Blood (serum)

Preparation

An overnight fast of 8 hours is preferred, with water allowed. Tell us if you take a biotin supplement, as high doses can interfere with the assay; we may ask you to pause it for two days.

Turnaround time

Reports for Calcitonin Level are typically ready within: 3rd Working Day. Reports can be collected at the clinic during opening hours or shared via WhatsApp once they are ready.

Also known as

Other hormones tests we run

These are routinely ordered alongside Calcitonin Level or as part of the same diagnostic workup.

How to book

WhatsApp is the fastest way — message us with the test name and your preferred time, and we'll confirm a slot the same day. You can also walk into the clinic at Rumba Chowk, Sanobharang any day between 7AM and 8PM, or fill in our online booking form.