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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 the active form. PTH helps regulate calcium and phosphate levels in your body.

Quick summary

["PTH helps control calcium balance and bone health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
15482-3
Short code
M avium paraTB Ab Ser Ql ID
Synonyms
M avium paraTB Ab Ser Ql ID
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
immune-diffusion
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 conditions that affect calcium levels, such as hypoparathyroidism (low PTH), hyperparathyroidism (high PTH), or kidney disease. It can also help diagnose or monitor conditions like osteoporosis, rickets, or pseudohypoparathyroidism.

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 Happens During the Test?

A healthcare provider will clean your arm and insert a needle to collect a blood sample. The blood will be sent to a lab for analysis. The process usually takes a few minutes.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are interpreted by your doctor based on your health history and symptoms. Abnormal levels may indicate conditions affecting calcium metabolism or bone health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: PTH plays a critical role in maintaining calcium homeostasis. Low levels may suggest hypoparathyroidism or vitamin D deficiency, while high levels could indicate hyperparathyroidism or kidney disease. Regular monitoring helps manage these conditions effectively.

Short name

Intact PTH

Frequently asked questions

What does a high or low PTH level mean?
A high PTH level may indicate overactive parathyroid glands or kidney problems, while a low level could signal underactive glands or other metabolic issues. Your doctor will discuss these findings with you.
Can diet or supplements affect PTH test results?
Dietary calcium intake and vitamin D levels can influence PTH. Avoiding large calcium supplements or dairy products for 24 hours before testing may help ensure accurate results. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.
Is there any risk or discomfort with this test?
Most people experience mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site. Rarely, there may be a slight reaction like redness or swelling. If you have a bleeding disorder, let your doctor know before the test.
  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