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Parathyroid Hormone (Intact), Serum

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

This test measures your intact parathyroid hormone (PTH), a protein produced by your parathyroid glands that helps regulate calcium levels in your blood.

Quick summary

["PTH helps maintain healthy bone and nerve function by controlling calcium and phosphate balance."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
79203-6
Short code
GH 1h p Arg+Ins SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
GH 1h 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 Is Done

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 such as hypoparathyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, or kidney disease that affect calcium metabolism.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. It usually takes about 15 minutes. Avoid caffeine or large meals 2 hours before the test if instructed.

What the Results Mean

Results are interpreted by your doctor based on your overall health and symptoms. High PTH levels may indicate overactive parathyroid glands, while low levels could suggest underactivity or other conditions.

Common Conditions Affecting Results

Factors like kidney disease, vitamin D deficiency, or certain medications (e.g., lithium) can influence PTH levels. Chronic kidney disease often leads to elevated PTH due to impaired calcium metabolism.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Intact PTH

Frequently asked questions

What might cause abnormal results?
Abnormal PTH levels can signal conditions like hyperparathyroidism (too much PTH), hypoparathyroidism (too little PTH), or metabolic bone diseases. Kidney disease or vitamin D disorders may also affect interpretation.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
Can diet affect this test?
Dietary calcium or vitamin D intake may indirectly influence PTH levels, but avoid extreme changes (e.g., high calcium supplements) 24 hours before testing.
  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