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Parathyroid Hormone (Active), Intact

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

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

Quick summary

["Active intact PTH helps assess calcium balance and diagnose conditions like hypoparathyroidism or hyperparathyroidism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
59835-9
Short code
PTH-Intact Fld-mCnc
Synonyms
PTH-Intact Fld-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 This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like muscle cramps, frequent urination, or abnormal calcium levels. It’s also used to monitor conditions such as kidney disease, bone disorders, or after thyroid surgery.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw blood. The process takes a few minutes, and you may feel a slight pinch.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your calcium and bone health are balanced. Very high or very low levels may indicate underlying issues like overactive or underactive thyroid function, kidney problems, or other metabolic disorders.

Common Conditions Linked to Abnormal Results

High levels of active intact PTH can be linked to hyperparathyroidism, while low levels may suggest hypoparathyroidism, 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.

Active intact PTH is crucial for diagnosing and managing conditions affecting calcium metabolism, bone density, and kidney function. It helps guide treatment plans for conditions like osteoporosis, kidney stones, or metabolic bone diseases.

Short name

Active Intact PTH

Frequently asked questions

What triggers a PTH test?
A doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like bone pain, muscle weakness, or unexplained fatigue, or if you have a history of thyroid or kidney issues.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
Can diet affect PTH levels?
Dietary factors like calcium, vitamin D, and phosphate intake can influence PTH levels, so your doctor may discuss dietary adjustments if needed.
  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