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 

Low PTH levels (hypoparathyroidism) can result from an accidental removal of parathyroid glands during surgery, autoimmune disorders, genetic conditions, excess vitamin D intake, or certain infections.

High PTH levels (hyperparathyroidism) can be caused by parathyroid gland tumors or hyperplasia, chronic kidney disease, vitamin D disorders, lack of calcium intake or absorption, pregnancy, or genetic disorders.

Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and impacts PTH levels. Low vitamin D can increase PTH production, while excess vitamin D can suppress it.

An intraoperative PTH test is performed during surgery to remove an overactive parathyroid tissue, confirming successful removal by measuring the drop in PTH levels post-excision.

Reducing parathyroid activity or treating hyperparathyroidism usually involves surgical removal of affected parathyroid gland(s) or medical management, as determined by a healthcare provider.

The decision to take vitamin D supplements with parathyroid disease should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider to avoid exacerbating the condition.

The PTH test is essential for diagnosing and managing disorders related to calcium and phosphorus metabolism, understanding parathyroid function, and guiding treatment.

PTH testing can be performed at any age when clinically indicated, such as abnormal calcium levels, symptoms suggestive of parathyroid disease, or chronic kidney disease.

The benefits of the PTH blood test include diagnosing parathyroid disorders, monitoring chronic kidney disease, evaluating severe osteoporosis, confirming successful parathyroid surgery, and guiding treatment.

Fasting is typically not required before the PTH test. However, it's important to inform your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you are taking, as they may impact the accuracy of the results.

Yes, Metropolis Healthcare provides a convenient home sample collection service for the PTH test. Our trained phlebotomists will visit your home to collect blood samples, ensuring comfort, safety, and accurate results.

PTH blood test results are usually available within 6 hours, though the exact timing may vary based on factors such as the day/time the sample was collected, processed, and the specific tests ordered