PTH, Intact without Calcium

Quest Diagnostics

Sample type: Plasma

Requires fasting: No

Phlebotomy required

Details

Biomarker summary

Parathyroid Hormone, Intact

Additional details

Estimated days for results: Results should be available in 2 - 5 business days after the sample is collected

Details

This test checks the levels of intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) in the blood, helping diagnose various conditions related to calcium levels in the body. It's particularly useful for understanding issues like too little calcium (hypocalcemia) or too much calcium (hypercalcemia) in the blood. Conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, hypoparathyroidism, hypercalcemia of malignancy, or mineral and bone disorder due to chronic kidney disease can be managed and diagnosed with this test.

Why might you need this test?

Doctors might suggest this test if a patient exhibits symptoms or is at risk for calcium imbalance disorders. It helps in:

Evaluating low calcium levels to check for inadequate PTH secretion (hypoparathyroidism).
Diagnosing high calcium levels to identify over-secretion of PTH (hyperparathyroidism or ectopic PTH production).
Monitoring mineral and bone disorder in chronic kidney disease patients from stage G3a onwards.
Assessing parathyroid disorders after bariatric surgery due to chronic calcium and vitamin D deficiency.

Since PTH levels are interpreted with calcium levels, a simultaneous blood calcium test is usually needed.

How does it work?

This test uses a special technique that involves antibodies targeting different parts of the PTH molecule, ensuring accurate detection of intact PTH molecules. It's reliable even in patients with renal failure, as it's not influenced by C-terminal fragments or most drugs and supplements, including biotin.

What type of sample is required?

1.5 mL plasma collected in an EDTA (lavender-top) tube.

Test Resources https://education.questdiagnostics.com/faq/FAQ202

Average sample processing time

2–6 business days

Health categories

Patient instructions

Blood Draw Options with Fullscript
Fullscript offers several convenient phlebotomy options to complete your lab testing:

Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Centers (PSC)

Location: Visit a nearby Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Center.
Cost: $10 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here. Appointments are recommended to reduce wait times. Walk-ins are accepted, but may experience delays. Aim to arrive 10 minutes before your appointment.
Collection Instructions:

Bring a valid ID.
Bring your digital or printed requisition form, available in the Labs tab of your Fullscript account.

Check-in: Scan the QR code from your confirmation email or follow kiosk instructions.
More Info: Quest Diagnostics blood draw guide

Getlabs Mobile Phlebotomy

Location: Sample collection at your home or office.
Cost: $85 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
Availability: Available in most locations – enter your ZIP code during checkout to confirm.
Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here through your Fullscript account.
Collection Instructions:

Have your digital or printed requisition form and valid ID ready.
Your phlebotomist will contact you by phone to coordinate arrival.

More Info: Getlabs blood draw guide

In-office phlebotomy instructions

Specimen

Preferred Specimen(s): 1.5 mL plasma collected in an EDTA (lavender-top) tube
Alternative: NA
Minimum Volume: 1 mL
Collection Instructions: NA

Storage and shipping instructions