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Parathyroid Hormone (Active), Intact

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

This test measures the active, intact form of parathyroid hormone (PTH), a key hormone that helps regulate calcium levels in your body.

Quick summary

["Active intact PTH helps diagnose conditions affecting calcium balance and bone health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
38157-4
Short code
PTH-Intact 5m p Excision SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
PTH-Intact 5m 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

Why Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like bone pain, frequent fractures, or unexplained high or low calcium levels. It’s also used to monitor conditions such as hyperparathyroidism or hypoparathyroidism, or to check for kidney disease that can affect PTH levels.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein in your arm, and a blood sample will be drawn. This is usually done in a lab or at a clinic.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your PTH levels are too high or too low, which can indicate underlying health issues. Your doctor will compare your results to your medical history and other test findings to make a diagnosis.

Common Conditions Linked to PTH Levels

High PTH levels may suggest hyperparathyroidism, while low levels could indicate hypoparathyroidism or other conditions like kidney disease or vitamin D deficiency.

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

Active Intact PTH

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal PTH levels?
Abnormal PTH levels can result from conditions like hyperparathyroidism (too much PTH), hypoparathyroidism (too little PTH), kidney disease, or certain medications. Lifestyle factors, such as diet or vitamin D levels, may also play a role.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health condition, symptoms, and medical history. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have chronic kidney disease, bone disorders, or other related conditions.
Can diet affect PTH levels?
Yes, diet can influence PTH levels. Foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus may affect hormone activity. Your doctor may recommend dietary adjustments if needed, especially if you have conditions like hyperparathyroidism.
  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