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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.

Quick summary

["Intact PTH helps regulate calcium levels in your body and is important for bone health and nerve function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
41130-6
Short code
M avium paraTB Ab Ser-aCnc
Synonyms
M avium paraTB Ab Ser-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

What Is Intact PTH Used For?

Intact PTH is primarily used to diagnose and monitor conditions related to abnormal calcium metabolism, such as hypoparathyroidism (low PTH) or hyperparathyroidism (high PTH). It can also help assess kidney function and bone disease.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your doctor may order an intact PTH test if you have symptoms like muscle weakness, bone pain, or frequent bone fractures, or if you have conditions like kidney disease, osteoporosis, or unexplained low calcium levels.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to measure the total PTH levels.

What Do Results Mean?

Results are interpreted based on your overall health, symptoms, and other test results. Abnormally high or low levels may indicate underlying medical issues that need further evaluation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Intact PTH plays a critical role in maintaining calcium balance. Elevated levels may suggest hyperparathyroidism, while low levels can indicate hypoparathyroidism or other metabolic disorders. Regular monitoring helps manage conditions affecting bone and mineral metabolism.

Short name

Intact PTH

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal intact PTH levels?
Abnormal PTH levels can be caused by conditions like hyperparathyroidism (too much PTH), hypoparathyroidism (too little PTH), kidney disease, vitamin D deficiency, or certain cancers that produce PTH-related proteins.
How long does it take to get results?
Results from an intact PTH test are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
Can lifestyle changes affect PTH levels?
Yes, factors like diet (especially calcium and vitamin D intake), physical activity, and certain medications (such as lithium or thiazide diuretics) can influence PTH levels. Discuss these with your doctor if they suspect lifestyle-related changes may impact your results.
  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