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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 regulates calcium levels in your blood.

Quick summary

["Active PTH helps maintain healthy calcium and bone metabolism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
88106-0
Short code
PTH-Intact Tiss FNA-mCnc
Synonyms
PTH-Intact Tiss FNA-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 to check for conditions affecting calcium balance, such as hypoparathyroidism (low PTH), hyperparathyroidism (high PTH), or kidney disease. It can also help diagnose or monitor conditions like osteoporosis, rickets, or pseudohypoparathyroidism.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your vein (venipuncture) to draw blood. It usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. If you’re anxious, let your healthcare provider know.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your PTH levels are too high or too low, which can affect calcium, bone health, or kidney function. Your doctor will compare your results to your symptoms and other tests.

Common Conditions Affecting PTH Levels

Low PTH (hypoparathyroidism) may cause muscle cramps, numbness, or irregular heartbeats. High PTH (hyperparathyroidism) could lead to bone pain, kidney stones, or fatigue. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you.

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

PTH (Active)

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab. Your doctor will contact you once they’re ready.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You can eat and drink normally unless instructed otherwise. No fasting is required.
Is there any risk with this blood draw?
The risk is minimal, but you might feel slight bruising, swelling, or discomfort at the site. Rarely, a small bruise or infection can occur. If you have a bleeding disorder, let your doctor know.
  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