Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood (venipuncture)
- Fasting: Not required
- Turn-around: 2-4 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
Benefits
- Comprehensive evaluation — Measures both PTH and calcium for complete parathyroid assessment
- Early detection — Identifies hyperparathyroidism and hypoparathyroidism before complications develop
- Bone health monitoring — Prevents osteoporosis and fractures through proactive screening
- Kidney protection — Helps prevent kidney stones and chronic kidney disease progression
- Convenient access — No doctor referral needed for direct-to-consumer testing
- Fast results — Results delivered securely within 2-4 days
Who Is This Test For?
- Adults experiencing unexplained bone pain, fractures, or osteoporosis
- Individuals with abnormal calcium levels from previous blood tests
- People with history of kidney disease or recurrent kidney stones
- Those with persistent fatigue, muscle weakness, or tingling sensations
- Patients monitoring known parathyroid disorders or post-surgical recovery
- Health-conscious individuals over 50 seeking preventive bone health screening
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
- Order online — Select your test and choose a convenient lab location near you
- Visit lab — Quick blood draw at your chosen location, no appointment needed
- Get results — Secure online access to results within 2-4 business days
FAQ
What does this test measure? Parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels and total serum calcium to evaluate parathyroid gland function.
Do I need to fast before the test? No fasting required, though morning samples may be preferred for consistency.
How accurate are the results? Modern PTH assays provide high sensitivity and specificity when measured with calcium (CDC 2024).
What if my results are abnormal? Abnormal results should be reviewed with a healthcare provider for proper interpretation and follow-up.
Can medications affect my results? Yes, inform your provider about supplements and medications, especially calcium and vitamin D.
How long do results take? Results are typically available within 2-4 business days through your secure online portal.
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
The Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) Blood Test Plus Calcium evaluates parathyroid gland function and diagnoses causes of abnormal calcium levels. PTH regulates calcium and phosphorus levels essential for bone health, nerve function, and muscle contraction (Cleveland Clinic 2025). This comprehensive test helps identify hyperparathyroidism, hypoparathyroidism, and related metabolic disorders that can affect bone strength and kidney function.
Who would benefit from this test?
This test benefits individuals with symptoms of calcium imbalance, including bone pain, muscle weakness, or kidney stones. It's particularly valuable for those with kidney disease, osteoporosis, or unexplained fatigue (MedlinePlus 2023). Women over 50 have higher risk for primary hyperparathyroidism, affecting about 1 in 1,000 adults (Cleveland Clinic 2025). The test also helps monitor chronic conditions and post-surgical recovery.
When should I order this test?
Consider ordering if you experience bone pain, frequent fractures, persistent fatigue, or muscle weakness. Other indicators include kidney stones, tingling in hands or feet, irregular heart rhythms, or digestive issues (Mount Sinai 2023). The test is also recommended for monitoring known metabolic disorders or following up on abnormal calcium results from previous blood work.
How do I interpret the results?
High PTH Level & High Calcium Level:
- What it means: Primary hyperparathyroidism
- Typical action: Further evaluation, possible surgery
High PTH Level & Low/Normal Calcium Level:
- What it means: Secondary hyperparathyroidism
- Typical action: Check vitamin D, kidney function
Low PTH Level & Low Calcium Level:
- What it means: Hypoparathyroidism
- Typical action: Calcium/vitamin D supplementation
Normal PTH Level & Normal Calcium Level:
- What it means: Normal parathyroid function
- Typical action: Continue routine monitoring
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.
Pre-test preparation
No fasting is required for this test. Morning samples may be preferred for consistency. Inform your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you're taking, particularly calcium, vitamin D, or medications affecting calcium metabolism (Alberta Health 2023). Avoid excessive calcium supplementation before testing unless prescribed by your doctor.
How often should I get tested?
- Initial screening (high-risk individuals): Every 2-3 years
- Known hyperparathyroidism (mild): Every 6-12 months
- Post-surgical monitoring: 6 weeks, then as directed
- Chronic kidney disease: Every 3-6 months
- Normal results (routine screening): Every 3-5 years
Why early detection matters
Early identification of hyperparathyroidism prevents serious complications including osteoporosis, kidney stones, and cardiovascular disease. Primary hyperparathyroidism affects approximately 1 in 1,000 adults, with higher rates in women over 50 (Cleveland Clinic 2025). Untreated parathyroid disorders can lead to progressive bone loss, kidney dysfunction, and increased fracture risk, making early detection crucial for preventing long-term health complications.
Related tests you may consider
Vitamin D Blood Test — Helps clarify causes of abnormal PTH/calcium, as vitamin D deficiency affects both hormones.
Phosphorus Blood Test — Provides insight into bone and kidney health since phosphorus levels are regulated with calcium and PTH.
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP-14) Blood Test – Evaluates overall health and screens for conditions affecting the liver, kidneys, electrolyte balance, and metabolism, including glucose, calcium, and protein levels.
