Intact Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) is a blood test that measures the level of biologically active parathyroid hormone. PTH is produced by the parathyroid glands and plays a vital role in regulating calcium and phosphate levels in the body. It helps increase calcium levels by promoting calcium release from bones, enhancing kidney reabsorption, and activating vitamin D for better calcium absorption in the intestines.
This test is typically used to diagnose conditions like hyperparathyroidism (high PTH levels) or hypoparathyroidism (low PTH levels), and to assess calcium imbalances, often in relation to kidney disease, bone disorders, or calcium abnormalities.