Parathyroid Hormone (Whole)
Parathyroid Hormone (PTH), also known as parathormone, is a crucial hormone produced by the parathyroid glands, which are four small glands located behind the thyroid gland in the neck. Despite their small size, these glands play a vital role in regulating calcium levels within the body. Calcium is essential for many physiological functions, including bone health, muscle contraction, nerve signalling, and blood clotting.
The primary function of PTH is to maintain stable calcium levels in the bloodstream. It achieves this by acting on bones, kidneys, and the intestines. When blood calcium levels drop, PTH is released to increase calcium by stimulating bone resorption, enhancing calcium reabsorption in the kidneys, and indirectly increasing calcium absorption from the intestines through activation of vitamin D.
The Parathyroid Hormone (Whole) test measures the intact, biologically active form of PTH circulating in the blood. This provides a reliable assessment of parathyroid gland function and calcium regulation. Because calcium balance is tightly controlled, even small abnormalities in PTH levels can have significant effects on overall health.
- Price: £129
- Code: PTH
- TAT: 1 - 2 Working Days
- Sample Type: Blood
Clinical Significance
The measurement of PTH is essential in evaluating disorders of calcium metabolism. Elevated PTH levels may indicate conditions such as primary hyperparathyroidism, where the parathyroid glands produce excessive hormone. This can lead to increased calcium levels in the blood, potentially causing symptoms such as fatigue, kidney stones, bone pain, and gastrointestinal disturbances.
Secondary hyperparathyroidism may also occur, often as a response to chronic kidney disease or vitamin D deficiency. In these cases, the body produces more PTH in an attempt to correct low calcium levels. Over time, this compensatory response can affect bone health and mineral balance.
Low PTH levels, although less common, may indicate hypoparathyroidism. This condition can result in low calcium levels and symptoms such as muscle cramps, tingling sensations, or spasms.
PTH testing is often performed alongside calcium, phosphate, and vitamin D measurements to provide a comprehensive understanding of mineral metabolism. The relationship between these markers helps clinicians determine whether abnormalities originate from the parathyroid glands, kidneys, or other metabolic processes.
Who Should Consider This Test?
The Parathyroid Hormone (Whole) test may be recommended for individuals with abnormal calcium levels detected on routine blood tests. It is commonly used when investigating symptoms such as unexplained fatigue, bone pain, muscle weakness, or recurrent kidney stones.
Patients with known kidney disease may also undergo PTH testing, as impaired kidney function can significantly affect calcium and phosphate balance. Monitoring PTH levels in these individuals helps assess disease progression and guide management.
The test may also be appropriate for individuals with suspected vitamin D deficiency or disorders affecting bone health, such as osteoporosis. In these cases, PTH levels can provide additional insight into the underlying causes of reduced bone density.
Additionally, healthcare professionals may request this test when evaluating endocrine disorders or monitoring patients who have undergone parathyroid or thyroid surgery.
Sample Collection
This test requires a blood sample, which is collected by a trained healthcare professional using standard phlebotomy techniques. The procedure is quick and minimally invasive, usually taking only a few minutes.
Because PTH levels can be sensitive to timing and sample handling, careful collection and prompt processing are important to ensure accurate results. The sample is analysed using specialised techniques to measure the intact form of parathyroid hormone in circulation.
No special preparation is typically required for this test unless otherwise advised. However, clinicians may recommend that it is performed alongside calcium or vitamin D testing for a more complete evaluation.
Understanding Your Results
PTH results are interpreted in conjunction with calcium and other related markers. Elevated PTH levels may indicate that the body is responding to low calcium levels or that there is excessive hormone production from the parathyroid glands.
If both calcium and PTH levels are high, this may suggest primary hyperparathyroidism. If calcium is low but PTH is elevated, this may indicate secondary hyperparathyroidism, often related to vitamin D deficiency or kidney disease.
Low PTH levels, particularly when accompanied by low calcium, may suggest hypoparathyroidism. In such cases, further investigation may be required to determine the underlying cause.
Because calcium metabolism is complex and influenced by multiple factors, healthcare professionals interpret results in the context of overall clinical findings. Additional tests may be recommended to confirm diagnosis and guide treatment decisions.
FAQs
When will I receive my results?
Results are usually available within the stated turnaround time.
Should I discuss my results with a doctor?
Yes, results should always be reviewed with a qualified healthcare professional.
Why Choose Marylebone Diagnostic Centre?
Marylebone Diagnostic Centre offers comprehensive endocrine and metabolic testing in a professional and patient-focused environment. Our approach ensures that each test is carried out with precision and attention to detail, delivering reliable and clinically meaningful results.
With fast turnaround times and experienced healthcare staff, we aim to make the testing process efficient and straightforward. Whether you are investigating calcium imbalance, bone health, or endocrine function, our services are designed to support accurate diagnosis and informed clinical decisions.
Book Now
Book the Parathyroid Hormone (Whole) (PTH) test today to gain valuable insight into your calcium balance and endocrine health.
