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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. PTH helps regulate calcium and phosphate levels in your body.

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
23243-9
Short code
M avium paraTB Stl Ql ZN Stn
Synonyms
M avium paraTB Stl Ql ZN Stn
Category
chemistry
Sample
stool
Container
Clean container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
acid-fast-stain-ziehl-neelsen
Specimen volume
5 g
Stability
Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like muscle weakness, bone pain, or frequent bone fractures. It’s also used to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting calcium metabolism, such as kidney disease, vitamin D deficiency, or hypercalcemia.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Wear loose clothing for easy access to your arm.

How the Test Works

A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample will be sent to a lab to measure intact PTH levels using a sensitive immunoassay method.

Possible Results and Next Steps

Results are compared to your doctor’s clinical picture and other tests. Low PTH may suggest hypoparathyroidism, while high levels could indicate hyperparathyroidism or other causes like kidney disease.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: PTH’s Role in Health

Short name

Intact PTH

Frequently asked questions

What does a low PTH level mean?
A low PTH level may indicate hypoparathyroidism, where your body doesn’t produce enough PTH to maintain normal calcium levels. This can lead to symptoms like muscle cramps, numbness, or irregular heart rhythms. Your doctor may recommend calcium supplements or other treatments to manage symptoms.
What does a high PTH level mean?
High PTH levels often point to hyperparathyroidism, where your thyroid glands produce too much hormone. This can cause calcium buildup in bones or kidneys, leading to fatigue, kidney stones, or bone pain. Treatment may include medications, surgery, or lifestyle changes to lower PTH.
Could diet or supplements affect this test?
Dietary calcium or vitamin D intake may influence PTH levels, but intact PTH is less affected by short-term dietary changes. Your doctor may adjust your diet or recommend supplements if needed, especially if calcium or vitamin D levels are low.
  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