The Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) Test measures the levels of parathyroid hormone in the blood. PTH plays a key role in regulating calcium levels in the blood, and abnormal levels can be indicative of conditions affecting the bones, kidneys, or calcium metabolism.
Indications for PTH Test:
● Bone disorders: PTH is tested if you experience bone pain, fractures, or signs of osteoporosis.
● Kidney stones or kidney disease: High PTH levels can be associated with kidney disease and kidney stones caused by calcium imbalance.
● Calcium imbalance: If you have abnormal calcium levels, the PTH test helps determine if the parathyroid glands are functioning properly.
How PTH Test Works:
● A blood sample is drawn to measure the level of PTH. The test is usually conducted alongside calcium and phosphate level tests to evaluate parathyroid function.
Normal Range:
● Normal PTH levels are typically between 10 – 65 pg/mL (picograms per milliliter).
Abnormal Test Significance:
● High PTH levels: Can indicate hyperparathyroidism, kidney disease, or vitamin D deficiency.
● Low PTH levels: May suggest hypoparathyroidism, calcium deficiencies, or magnesium deficiencies.
Management Based on Results:
● For high PTH: Treatment may involve calcium supplementation, vitamin D, or surgery if there is a parathyroid adenoma.
● For low PTH: Calcium and vitamin D supplementation may be required to manage hypocalcemia.
Price in India:
Approx. ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 for PTH testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of abnormal PTH levels?
High PTH levels can cause bone pain, muscle weakness, and kidney stones. Low PTH levels may lead to numbness, tingling, and seizures.
How is high PTH treated?
High PTH levels are often treated with calcium and vitamin D therapy, or surgery if a tumor is present.
Disclaimer: Abnormal PTH levels should be interpreted in the context of calcium and other metabolic tests for accurate diagnosis and management.
How HealthPil Can Help:
HealthPil offers access to endocrinologists who can analyze your PTH test results and provide treatment options for bone and metabolic disorders.