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Parathyroid Hormone, Intact (Serum)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the total amount of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in your blood, including all active forms of the hormone. PTH helps regulate calcium and phosphate levels in your body.

Quick summary

["Intact PTH helps manage bone health and calcium balance by checking your body’s response to low calcium levels."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
79205-1
Short code
GH 1.5h p Arg+Ins SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
GH 1.5h p Arg+Ins SerPl-mCnc
Category
hormone
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Matters

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like bone pain, frequent fractures, or unexplained kidney stones. It’s also used to diagnose or monitor conditions like hypoparathyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, or kidney disease that affect calcium metabolism.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a metabolic panel. Bring any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.

How the Test Works

A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to detect intact PTH levels.

Possible Results and Next Steps

Results may be compared to your baseline or to other tests (like calcium levels) to assess your PTH function. High or low results could guide treatment for conditions like bone disorders or electrolyte imbalances.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Intact PTH

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal PTH levels?
Abnormal PTH levels can result from conditions like hyperparathyroidism (too much PTH), hypoparathyroidism (too little), kidney disease, or certain cancers. Other factors, such as medications or thyroid disorders, may also affect results.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your symptoms, medical history, and treatment plan. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have chronic conditions like kidney disease or bone disorders.
Can diet affect PTH levels?
Dietary factors like calcium, vitamin D, and phosphate intake can influence PTH levels indirectly. Avoiding excessive calcium supplements or certain medications (e.g., lithium) may help stabilize results, but discuss this with your provider.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy