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Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) plays a vital role in regulating calcium levels. Abnormal PTH can signal conditions like hyperparathyroidism or kidney disease, making early detection and proper management essential.
Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is a key hormone the parathyroid glands produce. They are small glands located in the neck behind the thyroid.
Its main role in the body is to regulate calcium levels in the blood, bones, and kidneys.
PTH increases calcium absorption in the intestines, encourages the kidneys to retain calcium, and stimulates the release of calcium from bones into the bloodstream.
When levels of calcium in the blood are too low, the parathyroid glands release more PTH to restore normal calcium levels. Conversely, when calcium is too high, PTH levels decrease.
PTH testing is important for diagnosing conditions related to abnormal calcium levels, such as hyperparathyroidism, kidney disease, and bone disorders.
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A parathyroid hormone test is typically prescribed when there is a suspicion of an imbalance in calcium levels or a condition affecting the parathyroid glands. The test helps determine whether the parathyroid glands are functioning properly and contributing to abnormal calcium levels.
Parathyroid hormone testing is recommended in cases of:
Parathyroid hormone levels are typically measured through a blood test, where a sample of blood is taken from a vein, usually in the arm.
In many cases, PTH is tested along with calcium levels, as these two are closely connected.
This combined approach helps to identify whether abnormal calcium levels are caused by parathyroid gland dysfunction or another underlying condition.
Common panels that include PTH testing:
There are typically no special preparations for a PTH test. However, your healthcare provider may advise you to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the test, depending on any accompanying tests.
The normal ranges for parathyroid hormone levels can vary slightly depending on the age group, with different reference values for children, adults, and pregnant women.
Note: The units of measurement and the normal ranges can differ depending on the laboratory and the specific methods used
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Elevated PTH levels indicate that the body may be trying to increase calcium levels in the blood, possibly due to an underlying condition. High PTH levels are typically linked to issues involving calcium regulation, bones, or the kidneys.
Causes of high PTH levels include:
Low PTH levels suggest that the parathyroid glands are underactive or that another condition is suppressing PTH production. This can result in higher-than-normal calcium levels in the blood, which might also lead to various health issues.
Causes of low PTH levels include:
If you have abnormal parathyroid hormone levels or symptoms related to calcium imbalance, the specialist you should consult is an endocrinologist. Endocrinologists specialize in the glands and hormones of the body and can provide a more detailed diagnosis and treatment plan based on your PTH levels.
The hormone that opposes the action of parathyroid hormone (PTH) is calcitonin. It lowers blood calcium levels by reducing bone breakdown and increasing calcium excretion.
This article was written by doctors from the Docus Medical Research team and reviewed by leading endocrinology experts. We relied on academic studies, medical research, and publications from credible sources to ensure the information provided is accurate and trustworthy.
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