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: Intact Parathyroid Hormone (1-84) [Serum or Plasma] by Immunoassay, Mass Concentration

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

: This test measures the amount of intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) in your blood, which helps regulate calcium levels in your body.

Quick summary

[": An intact PTH test helps your doctor evaluate how well your parathyroid glands are working and whether your calcium balance is normal."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
68917-4
Short code
PTH-Intact 20m p Excision SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
PTH-Intact 20m p Excision SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.8
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
85610
SNOMED
396252006
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?

: Parathyroid hormone is made by four small glands in your neck called the parathyroid glands. The "intact" form is the full, active hormone. Measuring it helps your doctor understand how your body is managing calcium and phosphorus.

: Why This Test Is Done

: Your doctor may order this test if you have abnormal calcium levels, kidney disease, or symptoms that could point to a parathyroid problem. It is often done alongside calcium and vitamin D tests.

: How the Test Is Performed

: A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. No special preparation is usually needed, though your doctor may ask you to fast or to have the sample drawn at a certain time of day.

: What the Results Mean

: Results are interpreted together with your calcium level. A high or low PTH result can suggest an overactive or underactive parathyroid gland, but your doctor will consider your full picture. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, so always discuss your numbers with your care team.

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: serum

Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

: Intact PTH

Frequently asked questions

: Do I need to fast before an intact PTH test?
: Not usually. Follow any specific instructions your doctor or laboratory gives you, since preparation can vary.
: Can I take my medications before this test?
: Some medications and supplements can affect PTH and calcium results. Tell your doctor about everything you take and ask whether any changes are needed before testing.
: What if my intact PTH result is outside the reference range?
: A result outside the range does not automatically mean something is wrong. Your doctor will interpret it together with your calcium level, symptoms, and other tests, and will explain what it means for you.
  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