What i being tested?
The PTH, intact without calcium test is used to measure the level of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in the blood. PTH plays a crucial role in regulating calcium levels in the body and this test is primarily used to evaluate and monitor conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, hypoparathyroidism, and calcium disorders. The intact PTH test measures the biologically active form of PTH without interference from other substances that can affect calcium levels in the blood.
Reference Range
The Parathyroid Hormone, Intact test is used to measure the level of intact parathyroid hormone in the blood. The normal reference range for this test is as follows:
For individuals under 1 year of age, the reference range is 7-58 pg/mL
For individuals between 1 and 7 years of age, the reference range is 12-55 pg/mL
For individuals between 8 and 18 years of age, the reference range is 12-71 pg/mL
For individuals over 19 years of age, the reference range is 14-64 pg/mL
It's important to note that interpretation of the test results depends on both the intact PTH level and calcium level. The following interpretive guide can be used:
Normal Parathyroid: intact PTH and calcium levels are normal
Hypoparathyroidism: intact PTH level is low or low normal, while calcium level is low
Hyperparathyroidism:
Primary: intact PTH level is normal or high, while calcium level is high
Secondary: intact PTH level is high, while calcium level is normal or low
Tertiary: intact PTH level is high, while calcium level is high
Non-Parathyroid:
Hypercalcemia: intact PTH level is low or low normal, while calcium level is high
Test Description
Why should you get a Parathyroid Hormone Blood Test (PTH)?
Parathyroid hormone (PTH) plays a crucial role in regulating the amount of calcium and phosphorus in your body. This hormone is produced by the parathyroid glands, which are four small glands located in the neck. If there is an imbalance of calcium in your body, it can lead to various health problems, including bone disorders, kidney stones, and osteoporosis. A PTH blood test can help determine whether the levels of PTH in your body are within normal ranges or not.
What happens if you don't get a PTH blood test?
If you have an undiagnosed parathyroid problem, it can lead to several health issues. The most common one is hyperparathyroidism, where the parathyroid glands produce too much PTH. This condition can cause an imbalance in calcium levels, leading to osteoporosis, kidney stones, and other complications. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the affected gland.
What will you find out from a PTH blood test?
A PTH blood test measures the amount of parathyroid hormone in your blood. Based on the results, your doctor can determine whether your parathyroid glands are functioning correctly or not. The test can help diagnose conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, hypoparathyroidism, and vitamin D deficiency.
What can you do with this information?
Once you have the results of your PTH blood test, your doctor can recommend the best course of treatment for any condition that is diagnosed. If you have hyperparathyroidism, treatment may involve surgery to remove the affected gland. In other cases, medication or dietary changes may be recommended.
In conclusion, getting a PTH blood test is an essential step in maintaining your overall health. It can help identify any parathyroid gland problems early on, allowing for timely intervention and treatment. If you are experiencing any symptoms related to calcium imbalance, talk to your doctor about getting a PTH blood test.