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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) in your blood, which helps regulate calcium levels in your body.

Quick summary

["Active PTH helps maintain healthy calcium balance, affecting bones, nerves, and muscles."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
49036-7
Short code
PTH-Intact p Excision SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
PTH-Intact 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 to check for conditions affecting calcium metabolism, such as hypoparathyroidism (low PTH), hyperparathyroidism (high PTH), or kidney disease. It may also be used to monitor treatment for these conditions or evaluate symptoms like bone pain, muscle weakness, or abnormal heart rhythms.

What Does a High or Low Result Mean?

High levels of active PTH may indicate overactivity of the parathyroid glands or conditions like kidney disease or vitamin D deficiency. Low levels could suggest an underactive thyroid, kidney issues, or certain medications affecting PTH.

Sample Preparation and Testing Process

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is processed to separate serum (liquid part of blood without clots) for testing. The active PTH is measured using a sensitive immunoassay method to detect its presence and concentration.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to diagnose or monitor conditions like pseudohypoparathyroidism, renal osteodystrophy, or to assess calcium imbalances in patients with chronic kidney disease or metabolic bone diseases.

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 PTH (Intact)

Frequently asked questions

What does an abnormal active PTH level indicate?
An abnormal active PTH level may suggest an issue with your parathyroid glands, kidneys, or other parts of your body that regulate calcium. For example, high levels could point to overactive glands or kidney problems, while low levels might indicate underactivity or other metabolic disturbances.
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results from this test are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing schedule. Your doctor will contact you once the results are ready.
Can lifestyle changes affect my active PTH levels?
Yes, certain lifestyle factors like diet (especially calcium and vitamin D intake), physical activity, and medications (such as calcium supplements or certain blood pressure drugs) can influence PTH levels. Your doctor may recommend adjustments to your diet or lifestyle if needed, especially if you have a diagnosed condition affecting PTH.
  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