PTH (Parathyroid Hormone) Intact

This blood test measures the level of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in your bloodstream. PTH is a hormone produced by the parathyroid glands, which are four small glands located behind the thyroid gland in the neck.

What Does Parathyroid Hormone Do?

• Regulates calcium and phosphate levels in the blood.
• Increases blood calcium by:
• Stimulating calcium release from bones.
• Increasing calcium absorption from the intestines (indirectly via vitamin D activation).
• Reducing calcium loss through the kidneys.
• Helps maintain proper bone health and neuromuscular function.

Why Is the PTH Test Done?

• To evaluate calcium imbalances in the body (high or low calcium levels).
• To diagnose and monitor parathyroid disorders, including:
• Hyperparathyroidism (overactive parathyroid glands, causing high calcium).
• Hypoparathyroidism (underactive glands, causing low calcium).
• To investigate causes of kidney stones, bone pain, or osteoporosis.
• To assess calcium disorders related to kidney disease or vitamin D abnormalities.

Clinical Significance of PTH Test:

• Helps diagnose causes of abnormal calcium levels.
• Guides treatment decisions for parathyroid and calcium-related disorders.
• Monitors treatment response in parathyroid diseases or chronic kidney disease.