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Calcitonin Unit Converter
Calcitonin is a 32-amino acid polypeptide hormone secreted by the parafollicular cells (C-cells) of the thyroid gland. Its primary physiological function is to reduce blood calcium levels, opposing the action of parathyroid hormone (PTH). It inhibits osteoclast activity in bones and decreases renal tubular reabsorption of calcium.[Image of bone remodeling cycle showing osteoclasts]
Clinically, serum calcitonin is the primary tumor marker for the diagnosis and monitoring of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC). It is also used to screen family members of patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2). Elevated levels can also be seen in C-cell hyperplasia, chronic renal failure, and other neuroendocrine tumors. Accurate unit conversion is essential for comparing results across different laboratories, especially when monitoring post-operative MTC recurrence.
SI Units
RecommendedPicomoles per liter (Standard International).
Conventional Units
Clinical Context
Reference Ranges: Normal basal calcitonin levels are generally < 10 pg/mL (2.9 pmol/L) in men and < 5 pg/mL (1.5 pmol/L) in women.
Levels > 100 pg/mL are highly suspicious for Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma. Provocative testing with pentagastrin or calcium infusion can be used to stimulate calcitonin release in borderline cases. The conversion factor is based on MW 3418 g/mol: 1 pg/mL ≈ 0.293 pmol/L.
Clinical References
How to Use This Calculator
Follow these steps to get accurate clinical conversions instantly.
Enter Values
Input your laboratory results into the corresponding unit field (e.g., pg/mL). You can use either dot or comma decimals.
Automatic Conversion
The calculator works in real-time. As you type in one field, all other units (like pmol/L) are instantly updated.
Verify Units
Check the SI Units section. pmol/L is the standard SI unit for peptide hormones.
Reset
Use the Clear button to reset all fields before starting a new calculation.
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
Yes. 1 pg/mL is exactly equal to 1 ng/L.
Procalcitonin is the precursor to calcitonin. It is used as a marker for bacterial sepsis, not thyroid cancer, and has different units/ranges.