Parathyroid Hormone
The parathyroid hormone blood test measures PTH levels that regulate calcium balance in the body. It supports assessment of bone, kidney, and parathyroid health.
Turnaround time
1-2 days
Biomarkers count
1
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Details about Parathyroid Hormone
What is the Parathyroid Hormone test?
The Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) blood test measures the level of PTH, a hormone produced by the parathyroid glands that plays a central role in regulating calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D metabolism.
PTH acts on bones, kidneys, and the digestive system to maintain stable calcium levels in the blood. Even small changes in PTH can significantly affect bone strength, nerve function, and muscle activity.
This test is commonly used alongside calcium, vitamin D, phosphate, and kidney function tests to assess parathyroid gland activity and overall mineral balance.
Why do I need a test for Parathyroid Hormone?
PTH testing is essential when investigating abnormal calcium levels or symptoms related to bone and mineral imbalance. It helps determine whether calcium abnormalities are caused by parathyroid dysfunction or other underlying conditions.
The test is particularly useful for diagnosing hyperparathyroidism, hypoparathyroidism, vitamin D–related disorders, and chronic kidney disease–related mineral imbalance.
You may benefit from this test if you experience:
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Bone pain or bone weakness
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Recurrent kidney stones
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Muscle cramps or spasms
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Fatigue or weakness
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Tingling or numbness in fingers or lips
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Abnormal calcium or phosphate levels
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Osteoporosis or fracture risk
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Suspected parathyroid gland disorders
Benefits of the Parathyroid Hormone test
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Evaluates parathyroid gland function
Helps identify overactive or underactive parathyroid glands. -
Assesses calcium balance
Clarifies the cause of high or low calcium levels. -
Supports bone health assessment
Abnormal PTH levels can significantly affect bone density. -
Aids diagnosis of hyperparathyroidism
Essential for identifying primary and secondary forms. -
Supports kidney disease monitoring
Useful in assessing mineral imbalance in chronic kidney disease. -
Complements vitamin D testing
Helps interpret calcium and vitamin D interactions. -
Guides clinical decision-making
Supports appropriate follow-up and management strategies. -
Useful in osteoporosis evaluation
Helps determine hormonal contributions to bone loss.
Step-by-step – how we offer Parathyroid Hormone testing
Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)
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Choose your nearest UK clinic
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Attend your appointment
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A qualified clinician or phlebotomist collects your blood sample
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Sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis
At-home or hotel testing (+£60)
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A qualified phlebotomist visits your home or hotel
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Blood sample collected in a comfortable, familiar setting
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No clinic visit or travel required
Both services are available UK-wide.
Your Parathyroid Hormone results explained
Low PTH levels
Low parathyroid hormone levels indicate reduced parathyroid gland activity, which may lead to low blood calcium levels. This can affect nerve and muscle function and may cause symptoms such as tingling, muscle cramps, or spasms.
Low PTH may occur after neck surgery, in autoimmune conditions, or due to magnesium imbalance.
UK reference range:
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Low: <1.6 pmol/L
Normal PTH levels
Normal PTH levels indicate appropriate parathyroid regulation of calcium balance. When calcium and vitamin D levels are also normal, this suggests stable bone and mineral metabolism.
Symptoms may still occur if other related markers are abnormal.
UK reference range:
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Normal: 1.6–6.9 pmol/L
High PTH levels
High PTH levels suggest increased parathyroid activity and are commonly associated with hyperparathyroidism. This may lead to elevated calcium levels, bone demineralisation, and kidney stone formation.
High PTH can also occur secondary to vitamin D deficiency or chronic kidney disease.
UK reference range:
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High: >6.9 pmol/L
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
Book Online
Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
Take control of your health with London Blood Tests
WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.