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PTH

Parathormon · Parathyroid Hormone · iPTH

Knochen & MineralogieNüchtern erforderlichZeitabhängig
Einheit:
pmol/L

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) quantifies the concentration of the hormone secreted by the parathyroid glands, which regulates calcium and phosphate homeostasis.

Reference Ranges

Reference
1.66.9pmol/L
1.6
6.9
LowNormalHigh
Reference
Unit · pmol/L

Reference ranges may vary based on assay methods and population. Fasting and time of day can affect levels.

Overview

Übersicht

Parathyroid hormone (PTH), also known as parathormon or iPTH, is a critical regulator of calcium and phosphate metabolism in the body. It is secreted by the parathyroid glands and acts primarily on the bones, kidneys, and intestines to maintain serum calcium levels within a narrow range. PTH increases calcium release from bones, enhances renal tubular reabsorption of calcium, and stimulates the production of active vitamin D, which in turn increases intestinal absorption of calcium. Clinically, PTH is a vital marker for diagnosing and managing disorders of calcium metabolism such as hyperparathyroidism and hypoparathyroidism. Elevated PTH levels are commonly associated with primary hyperparathyroidism, chronic kidney disease, and tertiary hyperparathyroidism, while low levels are indicative of hypoparathyroidism. In the context of athletic performance and biohacking, maintaining optimal PTH levels is crucial for bone health and metabolic balance. Researchers have found that PTH levels can be influenced by factors such as vitamin D status, dietary calcium intake, and physical activity, which are of interest to those aiming to optimize bone density and overall metabolic health. However, interpreting PTH levels can be complex due to confounding factors such as time of day, fasting status, and the presence of oxidized versus non-oxidized PTH forms. Researchers observed that PTH levels can fluctuate diurnally and are affected by recent dietary intake, necessitating standardized testing conditions for accurate assessment.

Klinische Bedeutung

Elevated PTH levels can indicate hyperparathyroidism, chronic kidney disease, or vitamin D deficiency, while low levels suggest hypoparathyroidism or magnesium deficiency. Accurate PTH measurement is crucial for diagnosing and managing these conditions.

Dynamics

Trend Interpretation

Rising Values

Progressively rising PTH levels suggest worsening hyperparathyroidism or renal function. Re-test every 4 weeks if outside optimal range.

Falling Values

Progressively falling PTH levels may indicate improvement in underlying conditions or overtreatment.

Re-test Interval

4 weeks if outside optimal range

Etiology

Causes — High & Low

Cause

Elevated Levels

  • Primary hyperparathyroidism
  • Chronic kidney disease
  • Tertiary hyperparathyroidism
  • Vitamin D deficiency
  • Lithium therapy
Cause

Low Levels

  • Hypoparathyroidism
  • Magnesium deficiency
  • Autoimmune destruction of parathyroid glands
  • Post-surgical removal of parathyroid glands
  • Genetic disorders affecting PTH production
Protocol

How to Optimize

Lever

Lifestyle

  • Regular weight-bearing exercise
  • Adequate sun exposure for vitamin D synthesis
  • Stress management techniques
Lever

Nutrition

  • Ensure sufficient dietary calcium intake
  • Consume foods rich in vitamin D
  • Limit phosphorus-rich foods if elevated PTH
Lever

Supplementation

  • Vitamin D supplements
  • Calcium supplements if dietary intake is insufficient

Note:

Consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplementation, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Testing Guidelines

🍽️Fasting Required
🕐Time-Sensitive

PTH levels can vary diurnally; morning measurements are recommended for consistency.

Testing Frequency

Annually for those with risk factors or diagnosed conditions; more frequently if levels are abnormal.

Interfering Factors

  • Recent calcium or vitamin D supplementation
  • Renal function status
  • Assay variability

Related Peptides & Hormones

Vitamin D

Correlated with

hormone

Open Research Questions

Current research suggests that accurate reference intervals for parathyroid hormone (PTH) are still debated, particularly regarding the exclusion of individuals who are vitamin D deficient. Researchers have not yet established the clinical implications of measuring non-oxidized PTH (n-oxPTH) versus oxidized PTH, which may enhance understanding of PTH's role in various pathologies. Additionally, unanswered clinical questions remain about the optimal targets for PTH levels in managing conditions like hypoparathyroidism and tertiary hyperparathyroidism.

22 Research Publications

345

Total Citations

2

Human/RCT

2.2

Avg. Influence

2025

Latest

Sort
Filter
#01

Investigation of hypercalcemia.

Endres David B · Clinical biochemistry · 2012

ReviewInfluence5.0
91
This study investigated hypercalcemia, a condition often linked to primary hyperparathyroidism and chronic renal failure. Researchers highlighted the importance of accurate laboratory testing, including PTH measurement, to improve diagnosis. They suggested enhancing the availability of ionized calcium tests and refining reference intervals for PTH.

Key findings

  1. 01Researchers found that primary hyperparathyroidism and malignancy are the most frequent causes of hypercalcemia.
  2. 02They observed that accurate measurement of ionized calcium is crucial for diagnosing hypercalcemia.
  3. 03The study highlighted the need for improved reference intervals for parathyroid hormone testing.
View on PubMed
#02

Management of Hypoparathyroidism.

ReviewInfluence3.0
46
This study examined hypoparathyroidism, a rare disorder marked by low PTH levels leading to hypocalcemia. Researchers found that conventional therapies often lead to fluctuations in serum calcium, and PTH replacement therapy may improve outcomes for patients not responding to standard treatment. Emerging therapies are being developed to enhance drug efficacy and safety.
View on PubMed
#03

Post-renal transplantation hypophosphatemia.

ReviewInfluence2.0
35
This study explored post-renal transplantation hypophosphatemia and its relationship with parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion. Researchers found that persistent renal phosphorus wasting may contribute to bone disease in transplant patients, highlighting the need for further investigation into PTH's role in this context.
View on PubMed
#04

Tertiary hyperparathyroidism: a review.

ReviewInfluence1.0
35
This study reviewed tertiary hyperparathyroidism, a condition characterized by excess parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion following chronic kidney disease. Researchers found that even after renal transplantation, the enlarged parathyroid tissue may continue to secrete PTH excessively. Surgical intervention is often required for persistent hypercalcemia and elevated PTH levels.
View on PubMed
#05

Problems with the PTH assays.

Cavalier Etienne, et al. · Annales d'endocrinologie · 2015

Review
31
This study addressed ongoing challenges in the determination of parathyroid hormone (PTH). Researchers noted issues such as the presence of PTH fragments and the lack of standardization in assays, which can lead to inconsistent results. Efforts are underway to resolve these problems through collaborative work.

Key findings

  1. 01Researchers observed that PTH is often measured inaccurately due to the presence of fragments that some tests cannot detect.
  2. 02They found that there is a lack of standardization among PTH assays, leading to varying results.
  3. 03Researchers noted significant variability in PTH levels within the same individual over time.
View on PubMed
#06

Oxidation of parathyroid hormone.

Review
22
Researchers reviewed the oxidation of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and its impact on calcium regulation. They found that oxidized PTH has reduced biological activity, which could affect its diagnostic and prognostic value. A new method to distinguish between oxidized and non-oxidized PTH has been developed, opening avenues for further research.
View on PubMed
#07

Inactivating PTH/PTHrP Signaling Disorders.

ReviewInfluence1.0
21
This study focused on disorders related to inactivating PTH signaling, such as pseudohypoparathyroidism. Researchers found that these conditions are characterized by hormone resistance and specific physical features, linked to genetic mutations affecting the PTH signaling pathway. A new classification system was proposed to better define these disorders.
View on PubMed
#08

Determination of parathyroid hormone: from radioimmunoassay to LCMS/MS.

Review
12
Researchers reviewed advancements in PTH measurement techniques, noting the challenges posed by various PTH forms in circulation. They highlighted the development of mass spectrometry methods aimed at standardizing PTH assays, which could enhance the accuracy of clinical interpretations.
View on PubMed
#09

Progression of PTH Resistance in Autosomal Dominant Pseudohypoparathyroidism Type Ib Due to Maternal STX16 Deletions.

Case Report
11
Researchers investigated the timing of PTH and calcium abnormalities in children with maternally inherited STX16 deletions, which are linked to pseudohypoparathyroidism. They found that elevated PTH levels could be detected by age two, while calcium levels remained normal until around age five, indicating early onset of PTH resistance.
View on PubMed
#10

PTH assays in dialysis patients: Practical considerations.

ReviewInfluence1.0
10
This study highlighted the complexities of PTH assays in dialysis patients. Researchers found significant variability in assay results and emphasized the importance of monitoring trends in PTH levels rather than relying solely on absolute values. The study recommends using multiples of the upper limit of normal for better assessment.
View on PubMed

Clinical Trials (3)

3

Total Trials

134

Total Enrolled

A Trial Investigating the Safety, Tolerability and Efficacy of TransCon PTH in Adults With Hypoparathyroidism

NCT04009291Phase 2COMPLETED
Sponsor

Ascendis Pharma A/S

Enrollment

59

Started

2019

Primary outcome

Efficacy - Primary Endpoint During the Blinded Period

HypoparathyroidismEndocrine System DiseasesParathyroid Diseases

A Pilot Study to Evaluate the Effect of Forsteo (Teriparatide, 1-34-rh-PTH) in Anorexia Nervosa Patients With Low Bone Mineral Density and Increased Bone Fagility (FAN-Trial)

NCT01801397Phase 3UNKNOWN
Sponsor

University of Zurich

Enrollment

10

Started

2014

Primary outcome

To assess the efficacy of Teriparatide (Forsteo®) in increasing the bone mineral density in the lumbar spine, total hip and femoral neck in patients with anorexia nervosa and low bone density at months 12 and 24.

Low Bone Mass in Anorexia Nervosa Patients

A Pilot Clinical Study Evaluating the Effect of Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) Lowering On Erythropoietin Consumption in Calcitriol-Resistant Patients

NCT01506947Phase 4COMPLETED
Sponsor

AbbVie (prior sponsor, Abbott)

Enrollment

65

Started

2012

Primary outcome

Mean Erythropoietin Dose Per Visit

Moderate to Severe Secondary HyperparathyroidismStage 5 Chronic Kidney Diseases

Publication Trend

Research publications about PTH over time

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1
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1
'15
2
'18
1
'19
1
'20
1
'21
2
'22
1
'24

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