Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: Fasting for at least 12-14 hours prior to collection is required. Stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to collection.
- Turnaround: 2-4 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
What This Test Measures
This test measures two biomarkers in your blood: intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcium. PTH is produced by the parathyroid glands and helps regulate how much calcium is in your blood and bones, while also influencing phosphorus and vitamin D balance. Calcium is measured directly as the total amount circulating in your blood at the time of collection.
Together, these two values give you a picture of how your parathyroid glands and blood calcium levels relate to one another. Reporting PTH and calcium side by side allows a healthcare provider to see how these two related values compare, without combining them into a single calculated result.
Benefits
- Measures both PTH and calcium levels from one blood draw.
- Supports evaluation of abnormal calcium levels in the blood.
- Helps assess parathyroid gland function over time.
- Useful for monitoring certain kidney and parathyroid conditions.
- Can help confirm outcomes after parathyroid gland surgery.
Who Is This Test For?
- People with symptoms linked to high blood calcium, such as fatigue or bone pain.
- People with symptoms linked to low blood calcium, such as muscle cramps or tingling.
- Individuals being monitored for kidney disease affecting calcium balance.
- Individuals being monitored for hyperparathyroidism or hypoparathyroidism.
- Individuals confirming results after removal of an overactive parathyroid gland.
- Anyone asked by a healthcare provider to check PTH and calcium together.
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this test?
This test measures intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcium in the blood. Both are quantitative concentrations from a single blood sample, and they are reported individually rather than as a single combined score. Together, they may help a healthcare provider evaluate how your parathyroid glands are functioning and how that relates to your blood calcium levels. The test does not diagnose a condition on its own and is intended to be reviewed alongside other clinical information.
2. Who would benefit from this test, and when should I order it?
You may consider this test if you have symptoms associated with abnormal blood calcium. Symptoms linked to high calcium include increased thirst, fatigue, bone pain, and digestive upset. Symptoms linked to low calcium include muscle cramps, tingling, muscle weakness, and changes in mental clarity. It may also be useful for ongoing monitoring of kidney disease, hyperparathyroidism, or hypoparathyroidism, and for follow-up after parathyroid gland treatment or removal of an overactive parathyroid gland. A healthcare provider can help determine whether this test is appropriate for your situation, and it does not replace a full medical evaluation.
3. Do I need to fast before this test?
Yes. Fasting for at least 12-14 hours prior to collection is required. You should also stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours before collection.
4. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 2-4 business days. They may take longer due to weather, holidays, or lab delays.
5. How do I interpret the results?
Interpretation depends on the specific values reported, along with your symptoms, medical history, medications, and other laboratory findings. Because PTH and calcium influence one another, both values are typically reviewed together rather than separately. An abnormal result does not automatically confirm a specific condition, and a normal result does not rule one out. A qualified healthcare provider can give you a full interpretation.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
6. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
If your PTH or calcium results fall outside the expected range, review them with a qualified healthcare provider. They can help determine whether additional evaluation or testing is needed. Do not stop prescribed medication unless instructed by your healthcare provider.
7. How often should I get tested?
There is no set schedule for retesting PTH and calcium levels. How often you are tested depends on your individual health situation and should be determined by your healthcare provider, especially if you are being monitored for an ongoing condition.
Pre-test preparation
Fasting for at least 12-14 hours prior to collection is required. Patients should stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection.
Do not stop prescribed medication unless instructed by your healthcare provider.
