Just wondering if someone could give me advice, on what this entails. I have normal calcium levels but pth is 12.5, now may have to see a specialist, rheumatologist says they may want to see me. Also been diagnosed with osteoporosis. Thanks in advance
Parathyroid Hormone
A parathyroid hormone (PTH) blood test measures the level of parathyroid hormone in the blood. This test is used to help identify hyperparathyroidism, to find the cause of abnormal calcium levels, or to check the status of chronic kidney disease. PTH controls calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood.
PTH is made by the parathyroid glands , which are four pea-sized glands that lie behind the thyroid gland . If the blood calcium level is too low, the parathyroid glands release more PTH. This causes the bones to release more calcium into the blood and reduces the amount of calcium released by the kidneys into the urine. Also, vitamin D is converted to a more active form, causing the intestines to absorb more calcium and phosphorus. If the calcium level is too high, the parathyroid glands release less PTH, and the whole process is reversed.
PTH levels that are too high or too low can cause problems with the kidneys and bones and cause changes in calcium and vitamin D levels.
Tests for calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood may be done at the same time as a PTH test.
Why It Is Done
A test for parathyroid hormone (PTH) is done to:
•Help identify hyperparathyroidism.
•Find the cause of an abnormal blood calcium level.
•Check to see whether a problem with the parathyroid glands is causing the abnormal calcium level.
•Watch for problems in people who have chronic kidney disease
Normal values are 10 to 55 picograms per milliliter (pg/mL).
Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Some labs use different measurements or test different specimens
So have I any need to be concerned
it's on the lower end of normal. it may have to be compared to other test results like calcium/phosphorous/vit d etc. have all your other tests been normal? has the GP referred you to a Rheumatologist ?
I had a bone scan due to celiac disease, then went to see rheumatologist, she then diagnosed me with osteoporosis, blood test showed low leves of vit d although they are nearly normal now, just the pth levels aren't.
hi debbie. has your calcium levels been normal? usually pth is done when the calcium levels are abnormal. pth seems in the low normal range unless the particular lab that did the test have a their own specific gradient levels. this often happens. if the pth levels were abnormal the GP would have informed you. why not give them a ring & ask if you need to act on the pth levels?
Caitlin