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Parathyroid Hormone (Intact)

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.

Quick summary

["Intact PTH helps regulate calcium levels in your body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111287-9
Short code
M avium paraTB Ab Msmt Ser
Synonyms
M avium paraTB Ab Msmt Ser
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 This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms of low or high calcium levels, such as muscle spasms, bone pain, or kidney stones. It could also be used to diagnose or monitor conditions like hypoparathyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, or kidney disease.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw, but this depends on your doctor’s instructions. Wear a comfortable shirt for easy access to your arm.

How the Test Works

A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab to measure the intact PTH levels using a sensitive immunoassay method.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported in picograms per milliliter (pg/mL) or picomoles per liter (pmol/L). Your doctor will interpret the results in relation to your symptoms and overall health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Intact PTH

Frequently asked questions

High levels of intact PTH may indicate hyperparathyroidism, where the parathyroid glands produce too much hormone, leading to elevated calcium levels. Low levels could suggest hypoparathyroidism or other conditions affecting calcium metabolism.
This test is crucial for diagnosing and managing conditions that affect calcium balance, helping doctors make informed decisions about treatment plans.
What is intact PTH?
Intact PTH refers to the full-length form of the parathyroid hormone, which includes all active parts of the hormone in your blood. Measuring intact PTH provides a more accurate picture of your body’s calcium regulation compared to measuring just the active fragments.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health condition and doctor’s recommendations. If you have a known thyroid or kidney disorder, your doctor may schedule regular follow-ups to monitor your PTH levels.
  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