Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) Related Protein Levels in Serum/Plasma
This test measures the concentration of parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) in your blood. PTHrP is a substance that can mimic the effects of PTH and may be involved in conditions affecting calcium metabolism.
["Understanding your PTHrP levels can help diagnose or monitor conditions linked to abnormal calcium balance or bone health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2729-2
- Short code
- PTH Related Prot SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- PTH Related Prot 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 healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms or conditions that could involve abnormal PTHrP levels, such as hypercalcemia (high calcium in the blood), certain cancers (e.g., multiple myeloma), or kidney issues. It may also be used to assess response to treatment for conditions like hyperparathyroidism or metastatic bone disease.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed for this test. You may have a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm, similar to other blood tests. If you’re on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding disorders, let your provider know before the test.
What the Results Mean
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your medical history, symptoms, and other test results. Elevated levels may suggest conditions like hypercalcemia or certain cancers, while lower levels might be seen in kidney disease or other metabolic disorders. Your provider will discuss the findings with you.
Common Conditions Linked to PTHrP
High PTHrP levels are often associated with conditions that cause excessive calcium in the blood, such as certain cancers (e.g., squamous cell carcinoma, multiple myeloma) or kidney diseases. It can also play a role in hypercalcemia of malignancy or other metabolic bone disorders.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
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-Related Protein (PTHrP) Serum/Plasma
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal PTHrP levels?
How often should I get this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect PTHrP levels?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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