Skip to content

Serum/plasma mass concentration of parathyroid hormone (PTH)

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

This test measures the amount of parathyroid hormone in your blood, which helps regulate calcium levels in your body.

Quick summary

["PTH helps control calcium balance and bone health; abnormal levels may signal conditions like hypoparathyroidism or hyperparathyroidism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47768-7
Short code
GH 30M p Arg SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
GH 30M p Arg SerPl-aCnc
Category
chemistry
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 Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test to check for problems with calcium metabolism, diagnose conditions like low or high PTH, or monitor treatment for conditions such as kidney disease or bone disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your PTH levels are too high or too low, which can affect calcium, bone density, or kidney function. Your doctor will interpret the results in relation to your overall health.

Common Conditions Linked to PTH Levels

High PTH levels may indicate hyperparathyroidism (excess hormone), while low levels could suggest hypoparathyroidism (inadequate hormone). Kidney disease, vitamin D deficiency, or certain cancers may also influence PTH.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance: PTH is crucial for calcium homeostasis. Abnormal levels can lead to symptoms like muscle weakness, bone pain, or kidney stones. This test is often used alongside other blood and urine tests for diagnosis and management of metabolic bone disorders.

Short name

PTH Mass Concentration

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal PTH levels?
Abnormal PTH levels can result from conditions like kidney disease, vitamin D deficiency, thyroid disorders, or tumors affecting the parathyroid glands. Lifestyle factors (e.g., diet, medications) may also play a role.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab. Your doctor will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You can eat and drink normally unless your doctor instructs otherwise. Avoiding caffeine or alcohol before the test may help ensure accurate results, but this is not always required.
  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