IHC Marker-Calcitonin Test
About IHC Marker-Calcitonin Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Calcitonin Immunohistochemistry, Calcitonin IHC, Calcitonin Immunostain, CT IHC Marker |
| Sample Type | Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block (biopsy specimen from the thyroid gland, lymph node, or other suspected tissue) |
| Fasting Required | No — this is a tissue-based test performed on a biopsy sample, not a blood or urine sample |
| Report Time | 7 Days |
| Recommended For | All genders and ages; primarily for patients with suspected thyroid nodules, neck masses, or neuroendocrine tumours |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,920 |
What Is an IHC Marker-Calcitonin Test?
The IHC Marker-Calcitonin test is a specialised laboratory test that detects the presence and distribution of calcitonin protein within a tissue sample. Calcitonin is a hormone produced by C cells of the thyroid gland and plays a role in calcium regulation in the body. Also known as Calcitonin Immunohistochemistry or Calcitonin IHC, this test is carried out on a formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block — typically obtained through a prior biopsy procedure. Doctors order it when they need to confirm or rule out specific thyroid and neuroendocrine conditions.
What Does an IHC Marker-Calcitonin Test Measure?
This test uses specific antibodies to identify calcitonin protein in tissue sections viewed under a microscope. The results are reported qualitatively — as positive, negative, or with a description of staining intensity and pattern.
The test identifies the following:
Calcitonin protein expression: Fine granular staining in the cytoplasm of cells helps identify C cells of the thyroid, medullary thyroid carcinoma (a thyroid cancer arising from C cells), atypical laryngeal carcinoids (rare neuroendocrine tumours of the voice box), and other neuroendocrine tumours (tumours arising from hormone-secreting cells).
Amyloid deposits: Abnormal protein clumps sometimes found within medullary thyroid carcinoma tissue may also show varying degrees of calcitonin staining.
Why Is an IHC Marker-Calcitonin Test Done?
This test is ordered in specific clinical situations where a doctor suspects a thyroid or neuroendocrine condition that cannot be confirmed by imaging or blood tests alone.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following symptoms may prompt a doctor to request this test:
- A palpable thyroid nodule or mass in the neck
- A neck lump or swelling that does not resolve
- Persistent or unexplained diarrhoea
- Episodes of facial flushing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Hoarseness or a change in voice
- Difficulty breathing
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test can help identify or confirm a range of conditions, including:
- Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) — including early or microscopic forms, atypical forms, and cases without amyloid deposits
- C-cell hyperplasia (an abnormal increase in C cells, often associated with high blood calcium or hereditary syndromes)
- Atypical laryngeal carcinoids (rare neuroendocrine tumours of the larynx that may express calcitonin)
- Other neuroendocrine tumours expressing calcitonin
IHC Marker-Calcitonin Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
For patients already diagnosed with medullary thyroid carcinoma, this test can be used to track treatment response. It may be repeated after surgery or during follow-up to check for tumour recurrence or the spread of disease to other sites. Results help the treating team decide whether further intervention is needed.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed for this test. The key requirement is providing adequate clinical history. Here is what you need to know before your appointment.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required. This test is performed on a tissue sample already collected through a biopsy, so there are no dietary restrictions.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following points in mind when getting this test done:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and family history, as this is required for the test.
- Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking.
- If a FFPE tissue block from a prior biopsy is already available, carry it to the collection centre — a fresh biopsy may not be needed.
- Continue your regular diet and daily routine as normal.
Step-by-Step Procedure
The IHC Marker-Calcitonin test procedure follows a structured laboratory workflow:
- The tissue specimen from your biopsy is fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin wax to create a firm tissue block for processing.
- The tissue block is cut into very thin sections (approximately 4 to 5 microns) using a precision cutting instrument called a microtome.
- The sections are mounted onto specially coated glass slides for further processing.
- The wax is removed from the tissue sections to allow antibody penetration, and antigen retrieval steps expose the target protein.
- Specific anti-calcitonin antibodies are applied to the tissue. A coloured dye then makes the protein visible under a microscope.
- A qualified pathologist examines the stained slides and prepares a detailed report, which is delivered within 7 days.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors may influence the quality of results:
- Inadequate fixation of the biopsy tissue in formalin before submission
- Use of fixatives other than 10% neutral buffered formalin
- Insufficient tissue sample size
- Prolonged or improper storage of the tissue block
- Technical issues during slide preparation or antibody application
Understanding Your IHC Marker-Calcitonin Test Results
Results from this test are qualitative and must be reviewed alongside your clinical history, imaging findings, and other investigations. A pathologist interprets the staining pattern, and your treating doctor will discuss the findings with you.
| Parameter | Normal Finding | Positive Finding |
|---|---|---|
| Calcitonin IHC staining | Negative or minimal staining in normal thyroid follicular cells | Positive staining indicates presence of calcitonin-producing cells |
These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
A positive result means calcitonin protein is present in the tissue, which may suggest medullary thyroid carcinoma, C-cell hyperplasia, or another neuroendocrine tumour. A negative result indicates that calcitonin expression is absent or minimal; however, it does not completely rule out medullary thyroid carcinoma, as a rare calcitonin-negative form of MTC exists.
Results During Special Conditions
Certain health conditions may influence calcitonin levels and affect result interpretation:
- Hyperparathyroidism (overactive parathyroid glands) and renal failure (kidney disease) can alter calcitonin levels in the body, which may affect staining patterns.
- Technical factors such as improper fixation or prolonged storage of the tissue block can reduce staining quality and affect the reliability of results.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
While calcitonin levels are not directly controlled through lifestyle, these general steps are advisable:
- If you have a family history of MEN2 (multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2) or hereditary medullary thyroid cancer, attend regular medical check-ups as advised by your doctor.
- Report any persistent neck lumps, changes in voice, or difficulty swallowing to your doctor without delay.
- Genetic counselling may be discussed with your doctor if there is a hereditary thyroid cancer pattern in your family.
Lupin Diagnostics IHC Marker-Calcitonin Test Price
The IHC Marker-Calcitonin test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹1,920. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre; home collection is not available for this test.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 1920 |
| CHENNAI | 1920 |
| HYDERABAD | 1920 |
| KOLKATA | 1920 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 1920 |
| PUNE | 1920 |
Disclaimer: Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
Follow these steps to book your IHC Marker-Calcitonin test online at Lupin Diagnostics:
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred centre location.
- Visit the centre at your scheduled time for sample submission.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
This test is used primarily to confirm the diagnosis of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), a type of thyroid cancer that arises from the calcitonin-producing C cells of the thyroid gland. It is also used to monitor treatment response and check for recurrence in patients already diagnosed with MTC.
The tissue sample is obtained through a biopsy, which may involve fine needle aspiration or surgical removal of a small piece of tissue. If a paraffin-embedded tissue block from a previous biopsy is already available, you can submit that directly without undergoing a new procedure.
No dietary or physical preparation is needed. You can eat and drink normally and continue your regular medications. The key requirement is bringing a detailed clinical history, including previous test results and relevant medical records, when submitting your sample.
The report is typically ready within 7 days of sample submission at Lupin Diagnostics. Processing time may vary slightly depending on sample quality and laboratory scheduling.
No, this test is not used as a routine screening tool. It is a specialised test ordered when there is a clinical reason to suspect medullary thyroid carcinoma or a related neuroendocrine condition, based on symptoms, imaging, or blood test findings.
Apart from medullary thyroid carcinoma, laryngeal neuroendocrine tumours (tumours in the voice box) can also show positive calcitonin staining. These must be carefully distinguished from MTC by an experienced pathologist, as they require different management.
Yes. Conditions such as hyperparathyroidism (overactive parathyroid glands) and renal failure (kidney disease) can alter calcitonin levels in the body and may influence how results are interpreted. Your doctor will consider your full clinical picture when reviewing the findings.
IHC Marker-Calcitonin Test
