Abstract
Human calcitonin (hCT) is a tumor marker essential to the diagnosis and follow-up
of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). Current consensus recommends hCT measurement when
initially evaluating thyroid nodules; if slightly elevated, a confirmatory stimulated
calcitonin test is commonly performed, usually using pentagastrin. In recent years
the supply of pentagastrin was not guaranteed with long periods of unavailability;
the outlook for future availability is unknown. Therefore it is desirable for many
institutions to establish a procedure for calcitonin stimulation using a stimulant
with a secure supply; stimulation of calcitonin using calcium represents the easiest
alternative.
Several schemes and dosages have been used in the past for calcium stimulated calcitonin
measurement. In this paper we propose a procedure for calcium stimulated calcitonin
measurement based on our experiences. Furthermore we will briefly point out the limitations
of this method with regard to available data in literature.
Key words
calcitonin - pentagastrin - calcium stimulation - medullary thyroid carcinoma - procedure
