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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 body.

Quick summary

["Active PTH helps balance calcium, which is vital for bone health and nerve function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50529-7
Short code
PTH-Intact sp5 SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
PTH-Intact sp5 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 This Test Might Be Ordered

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 like hyperparathyroidism or kidney disease that affect calcium metabolism.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. If you’re on certain medications (like calcium supplements or vitamin D), let your doctor know beforehand.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your PTH levels are too high or too low, which can affect calcium balance. High levels may suggest overactive parathyroid glands, while low levels could indicate kidney issues or other disorders.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to diagnose or monitor conditions like primary hyperparathyroidism, pseudohypoparathyroidism, or kidney-related calcium disorders.

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 triggers this test?
Symptoms like bone pain, frequent fractures, or unexplained calcium imbalances, as well as certain medical conditions (e.g., kidney disease, hyperparathyroidism) may prompt this test.
How is the blood sample collected?
A healthcare provider will draw blood from your arm using a small needle. It typically takes a few minutes, and you may feel a slight pinch. No special preparation is required.
Can diet affect PTH levels?
Dietary calcium and vitamin D intake can influence calcium levels indirectly, but they don’t directly affect PTH measurement. Always discuss your medications and diet with your doctor before testing.
  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