PTH (Parathyroid Hormone) Intact

A PTH intact molecule test is most often used along with calcium testing and vitamin D levels to diagnose hyperparathyroidism, hypoparathyroidism  & monitor kidney disease. It is also used to diagnose cause for osteoporosis & kidney stones.

This test helps in the following ways:

• Assesses the functioning of the parathyroid glands
• Diagnoses and monitors primary hyperparathyroidism, hypoparathyroidism, and other calcium-related disorders.
• Monitors the effectiveness of treatments like surgery and medications used to regulate parathyroid hormone levels
• Determines the appropriate treatment plan for patients with abnormal parathyroid hormone levels
• Monitors the progress of treatment in patients with conditions related to abnormal calcium levels

The PTH-Intact Molecule Parathyroid Hormone Serum/Plasma test measures the level of the intact (whole, functional) form of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in your blood. This test specifically focuses on the complete, biologically active form of PTH. There are other fragments of PTH circulating in the blood, but this test isolates the intact molecule for accurate assessment.

PTH intact molecule test requires a blood sample. A tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is then asked to make a fist. This helps in the build-up of blood filling the veins. The skin is disinfected before needle insertion and the blood sample is collected in vacutainer. 

High level of PTH (Hyperparathyroidism) is seen in:

• Hyperplasia or tumor of the parathyroid gland
• Chronic kidney failure

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is produced by the four parathyroid glands located in the neck near the thyroid gland. PTH regulates calcium and phosphorus concentrations in the bloodstream and works with the hormone calcitonin, produced by the thyroid gland, to maintain adequate calcium in the body. 

In the bloodstream, PTH stimulates the release of calcium from bone, increases calcium absorption from the digestive tract, and reduces calcium excretion in the urine. PTH also increases the production of vitamin D in the kidneys, which helps the body absorb calcium from food. Elevated PTH levels can lead to various health problems, including increased risk of fractures, kidney stones, and calcification of soft tissues.

The PTH test measures the total amount of PTH in the blood, while the intact PTH test measures the amount of intact (undamaged, functional) PTH molecules present. The intact PTH test is more sensitive and accurate than the PTH test, which can be affected by other molecules in the blood.

There are no specific preparations required for the test. However, it is recommended that you consult with your healthcare provider before taking the test, as they may have specific instructions or recommendations based on your individual medical history and current health status.

The normal range for intact PTH is 10-65 pg/mL.

The frequency of an intact PTH test depends on the condition being monitored. In general, the test should be done periodically to monitor treatment and to detect any changes in the condition.

People with the following symptoms and medical conditions should undergo the test:

• Patients with symptoms of parathyroid hormone (PTH) imbalance or abnormality
• Patients with a family history of PTH imbalances or at risk for calcium-related diseases.
• Pregnant or lactating women
• Patients who have undergone kidney transplantation
• Individuals who are taking medications that interfere with calcium metabolism, such as corticosteroids

Doctors advise the PTH test for people with lifestyle or environmental issues such as:

• Poor diet and inadequate nutrition
• Exposure to environmental toxins, such as lead, mercury, and cadmium
• Stress and an overly sedentary lifestyle 
• Certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease, hypoparathyroidism, and hyperparathyroidism

In addition to the PTH test, the doctor may also order additional tests, such as: 

• Calcium Levels Test: This test measures the amount of calcium in the blood, which is essential for the proper functioning of the parathyroid gland.
• Phosphorus Levels Test: This test measures the amount of phosphorus in the blood.
• Vitamin D Levels Test: This test measures the amount of vitamin D in the blood, which helps regulate calcium and phosphorus absorption and parathyroid hormone levels. 
• Renal Function Tests: This test measures how well the kidneys are functioning.
• Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Serum/ Plasma Test: This test measures the amount of TSH produced by the pituitary gland, which helps regulate the activity of the parathyroid gland
• Phosphate Serum/ Plasma Test: This test measures the amount of phosphate in the blood, which also helps regulate calcium and parathyroid hormone levels.

• PTH
• Parathyroid Hormone Test