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PTHDefinition PTH is a test that measures the amount of PTH (parathormone) in blood. How the test is performed Adult or child: Blood is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic, and a tourniquet is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and restrict blood flow through the vein. This causes veins below the tourniquet to fill with blood. A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. The tourniquet is then removed to restore circulation. After blood has been collected the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding. Infant or young child: The area is cleansed with antiseptic and punctured with a sharp needle or a lancet. The blood may be collected in a pipette (small glass tube), on a slide, onto a test strip, or into a small container. A bandage may be applied to the puncture site if there is any bleeding. How to prepare for the test Fasting (except water) is required for 10 to 12 hours before the test. How the test will feel When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing. Why the test is performed This test may be performed when PTH abnormality is suspected as a cause of abnormal calcium or phosphorus levels. PTH, the most important regulator of body calcium and phosphorus, is a protein hormone secreted by the parathyroid gland. PTH:
Normal Values Normal values are 10-55 pg/mL. Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Note: pg/mL = picograms per milliliter What abnormal results mean Greater-than-normal levels may be associated with:
What the risks are
Special considerations Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others. Page Content: Parathormone; Parathormone (PTH) intact molecule; Parathyroid hormone ; parathyroid hormone; parathyroid hormone level; parathyroid and hormone and related and protein; function of parathyroid hormone; parathormone |
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