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: Parathyroid Hormone Related Protein, Serum or Plasma

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

: This test measures parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) in a blood sample to help evaluate certain causes of elevated blood calcium.

Quick summary

[": PTHrP testing helps determine whether a high calcium level is being driven by this hormone rather than by the parathyroid glands themselves."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
107385-7
Short code
PT Hrt Views W RNC IV
Synonyms
PT Hrt Views W RNC IV
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
Method
pt
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

: What Is PTHrP?

: Parathyroid hormone-related protein is a hormone that can be made by certain tissues and, in some conditions, by tumors. It behaves similarly to parathyroid hormone and can raise blood calcium by increasing calcium release from bone and altering kidney handling of calcium.

: Why the Test Is Ordered

: Your clinician may order this test when you have a high blood calcium level, especially if the usual parathyroid hormone level does not explain it. It is used to look for a PTHrP-driven cause of hypercalcemia, often in the context of known or suspected cancer.

: How the Sample Is Collected

: A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically from your arm. The specimen is usually serum or plasma, depending on the laboratory's requirements. Your care team may give specific instructions about timing or other preparations, so follow their directions.

: What Results Mean

: An elevated PTHrP level can support a diagnosis of a PTHrP-mediated cause of high calcium. A normal result does not by itself rule out every cause of hypercalcemia. Results are interpreted together with calcium, parathyroid hormone, kidney function, and your overall clinical picture.

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

: PTHrP

Frequently asked questions

: Does an elevated PTHrP result always mean cancer?
: No. An elevated PTHrP is most often associated with certain cancers, but it is not a cancer test by itself, and results must be interpreted alongside other findings by your clinician.
: Can I eat or drink before this test?
: Preparation depends on the laboratory and your clinician's instructions. Follow any specific fasting or timing directions you are given; if none are provided, ask your care team.
: Is this the same as a parathyroid hormone (PTH) test?
: No. PTH and PTHrP are different hormones. PTH comes from the parathyroid glands, while PTHrP is produced by other tissues and some tumors; they are measured separately.
  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