Lever
Lifestyle
- Regular weight-bearing exercise
- Adequate sun exposure for vitamin D synthesis
Blutwerte · Marker
PTH
Parathormon · Parathyroid Hormone · iPTH
Knochen & MineralogieZeitabhängig
- Einheit:
- pmol/L
The test quantifies the concentration of parathyroid hormone in the blood, reflecting its role in calcium and phosphate metabolism.
Reference Ranges
Reference
1.6–6.9pmol/L
1.6
6.9
LowNormalHigh
Reference
Unit · pmol/LRanges may vary slightly depending on the assay used. Time of day and fasting status can affect levels.
Overview
Übersicht
Parathyroid hormone (PTH), also known as parathormon or parathyroid hormone, is a critical regulator of calcium and phosphate metabolism in the body. It is secreted by the parathyroid glands and plays a pivotal role in maintaining calcium homeostasis by acting on bones, kidneys, and the intestine to increase serum calcium levels. PTH stimulates the release of calcium from bones, increases renal tubular reabsorption of calcium, and enhances intestinal absorption of calcium by promoting the activation of vitamin D. Clinically, PTH is significant in diagnosing and managing disorders such as hyperparathyroidism and hypoparathyroidism. Elevated PTH levels are often indicative of primary, secondary, or tertiary hyperparathyroidism, conditions that can arise due to chronic kidney disease, vitamin D deficiency, or parathyroid adenomas. Conversely, low PTH levels are associated with hypoparathyroidism, often resulting from surgical removal of the parathyroid glands or autoimmune destruction. For athletes and biohackers, maintaining optimal PTH levels is crucial for bone health and metabolic balance. While PTH itself is not directly linked to athletic performance, its role in calcium regulation impacts muscle function and bone density, which are vital for physical activity and longevity. Researchers found that PTH levels can be influenced by factors such as circadian rhythms, fasting state, and assay variability. It is recommended to measure PTH levels in a consistent manner, considering potential confounders like recent calcium or vitamin D intake, and to use standardized assays for accurate interpretation.
Klinische Bedeutung
Elevated PTH levels indicate hyperparathyroidism, which may result from chronic kidney disease or parathyroid tumors. Reduced PTH levels suggest hypoparathyroidism, often due to surgical removal of the parathyroid glands or autoimmune conditions.
Dynamics
Trend Interpretation
Rising Values
Progressively rising PTH values suggest worsening hyperparathyroidism or renal impairment. Re-test within 4 weeks if outside optimal range.
Falling Values
Progressively falling PTH values may indicate improving parathyroid function or over-suppression in treatment.
Re-test Interval
4 weeks if outside optimal range
Etiology
Causes — High & Low
Cause
Elevated Levels
- Chronic kidney disease
- Primary hyperparathyroidism
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Tertiary hyperparathyroidism
- Parathyroid adenoma
Cause
Low Levels
- Surgical removal of parathyroid glands
- Autoimmune destruction
- Magnesium deficiency
- Genetic disorders affecting PTH secretion
- Radiation therapy to the neck
Protocol
How to Optimize
Lever
Nutrition
- Diet rich in calcium
- Adequate magnesium intake
Lever
Supplementation
- Vitamin D supplements
- Calcium supplements
Note:
Consult a healthcare provider before starting supplements, especially if you have a history of kidney stones or hypercalcemia.
Testing Guidelines
✓Fasting Not Required
🕐Time-Sensitive
PTH levels can vary throughout the day; morning measurements are recommended for consistency.
Testing Frequency
Annually for individuals with risk factors, more frequently if managing a related condition.
Interfering Factors
- Recent calcium intake
- Vitamin D supplementation
- Assay variability
Related Peptides & Hormones
Calcitriol
hormoneCorrelated with
Open Research Questions
Current research suggests that there is no standardization of PTH assays, leading to confusion regarding reference ranges and optimal targets for treatment, particularly in CKD patients. Researchers have not yet established the clinical significance of measuring oxidized versus non-oxidized PTH, creating gaps in understanding its role in physiology and pathology. Additionally, unanswered clinical questions remain regarding the long-term efficacy of PTH replacement therapy in hypoparathyroidism and the best management strategies for tertiary hyperparathyroidism.
40 Research Publications
504
Total Citations
12
Human/RCT
2.1
Avg. Influence
2025
Latest
Sort
Filter
01Top
#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
- 01Researchers found that primary hyperparathyroidism and malignancy are the most frequent causes of hypercalcemia.
- 02They observed that accurate measurement of ionized calcium is crucial for diagnosing hypercalcemia.
- 03The study highlighted the need for improved reference intervals for parathyroid hormone testing.
02Top
#02
Interpretation of serum PTH concentrations with different kits in dialysis patients according to the KDIGO guidelines: importance of the reference (normal) values.
HumanInfluence2.0
85
Researchers found that using a consistent reference population for serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels improved the classification of dialysis patients according to KDIGO guidelines. The study evaluated 10 commercial PTH kits and revealed significant discrepancies in patient classification based on different reference values. By establishing their own reference values, researchers reduced the number of patients classified differently from 56.4% to 16.1%.
03Top
#03
Management of Hypoparathyroidism.
HumanInfluence3.0
50
This study reviewed the management of hypoparathyroidism, a rare condition marked by low parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels and hypocalcemia. Researchers found that conventional therapy often leads to fluctuations in serum calcium, and PTH replacement therapy may be considered when conventional methods are insufficient. Emerging therapies aim to enhance drug efficacy and safety.
04
#04
Post-renal transplantation hypophosphatemia.
ReviewInfluence2.0
36
This review explored the mechanisms of post-renal transplant bone disease, highlighting the role of persistent renal phosphorus wasting. Researchers noted that excess parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion may contribute to negative phosphorus balance and subsequent bone disease, although the exact relationship remains unclear.
05
#05
Tertiary hyperparathyroidism: a review.
ReviewInfluence1.0
36
This review examined tertiary hyperparathyroidism, a condition characterized by excessive secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH) following chronic kidney disease. Researchers found that even after renal transplantation, parathyroid tissue may continue to overproduce PTH, leading to persistent hypercalcemia. The study highlights the surgical options for treatment, though the best approach remains controversial.
06
#06
Problems with the PTH assays.
Cavalier Etienne, et al. · Annales d'endocrinologie · 2015
Review
31
Researchers addressed ongoing problems with parathyroid hormone (PTH) assays, noting that variations in assay methods can lead to inconsistent results. The study highlighted the lack of standardization and reference methods, which complicates the interpretation of PTH levels in clinical settings. A workgroup is currently addressing these issues to improve assay reliability.
Key findings
- 01Researchers observed that PTH is often measured inaccurately due to the presence of fragments that some tests cannot detect.
- 02They found that there is a lack of standardization among PTH assays, leading to varying results.
- 03Researchers noted significant variability in PTH levels within the same individual over time.
07
#07
Parathyroid hormone and heart failure: novel biomarker strategy.
ReviewInfluence1.0
24
08
#08
Inactivating PTH/PTHrP Signaling Disorders.
ReviewInfluence1.0
22
This study reviewed inactivating PTH/PTHrP signaling disorders, which include pseudohypoparathyroidism and related conditions. Researchers found that these disorders are characterized by hormone resistance and various physical abnormalities. The study proposed a new classification system that focuses on the common mechanisms underlying these disorders.
09
#09
Oxidation of parathyroid hormone.
Review
22
This review focused on the oxidation of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and its impact on calcium regulation. Researchers observed that oxidized PTH has reduced activity in activating its receptor, 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.
10
#10
Prevalence and clinical significance of hypercalcemia at diagnosis in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.
HumanInfluence4.0
17
Clinical Trials (24)
24
Total Trials
3,847
Total Enrolled
Cardiovascular Effects of Parathyroid Hormone Analogues in Chronic Hypoparathyroidism
NCT07707479ACTIVE_NOT_RECRUITING
Sponsor
National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
Enrollment
210
Started
2026
Primary outcome
Differences between PTH-treated group, disease control group, and healthy controls in carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV)
Chronic Hypoparathyroidism
Study of MT1013 for the Treatment of Patients With Secondary Hyperparathyroidism
Sponsor
Shaanxi Micot Pharmaceutical Technology Co., Ltd.
Enrollment
424
Started
2025
Primary outcome
Percentage of participants with > 50% reduction from baseline in mean intact parathyroid (iPTH)
Secondary Hyperparathyroidism, Chronic Kidney Disease
Is Intraoperative PTH Monitoring Obsolete in Times of Choline PET/CT? a Prospective Multicenter Cohort Study to Determine Whether the Regular Preoperative Use of Choline-PET/CT Scan Obviate the Need for Intraoperative PTH-measurement in Patients with Primary Hyperparathyreoidism
NCT06804681NOT_YET_RECRUITING
Sponsor
University of Zurich
Enrollment
1,000
Started
2025
Primary outcome
Determine the successful removal of all parathyroid glands responsible for the pHPT based on the preoperative Choline-PET/CT findings with measurement of parathormone and calcium level
Primary Hyperparathyroidism
DePTH: De-emphasize PTH
Sponsor
University of Washington
Enrollment
90
Started
2024
Primary outcome
Change in fibroblast growth factor-23
Kidney Failure, ChronicChronic Kidney Disease-Mineral and Bone Disorder
A Clinical Study of rhPTH(1-84) Treatment in Japanese Participants With Chronic Hypoparathyroidism
Sponsor
Shire
Enrollment
0
Started
2022
Primary outcome
Number of Responders at Week 26
Chronic Hypoparathyroidism
Treatment of Adynamic Bone Disorder With Parathyroid Hormone in Chronic Kidney Disease
Sponsor
Ditte Hansen
Enrollment
48
Started
2021
Primary outcome
Changes in bone specific alkaline phosphatase (BSAP)
Adynamic Bone DiseaseChronic Kidney DiseasesCardiac DiseaseChronic Kidney Disease-Mineral and Bone Disorder
PaTHway CHINA TRIAL: A Trial to Investigating the Safety, Tolerability and Efficacy of TransCon PTH in Adults With Hypoparathyroidism
Sponsor
Visen Pharmaceuticals (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
Enrollment
81
Started
2021
Primary outcome
The proportion of subjects who meet primary efficacy endpoint at 26 weeks of treatment
HypoparathyroidismParathyroid Hormone DeficiencyEndocrine System DiseasesParathyroid Diseases
A Trial Investigating the Safety, Tolerability and Efficacy of TransCon PTH Administered Daily in Adults With Hypoparathyroidism
Sponsor
Ascendis Pharma Bone Diseases A/S
Enrollment
84
Started
2021
Primary outcome
Efficacy - Primary Endpoint During the Blinded Period
HypoparathyroidismEndocrine System DiseasesParathyroid Diseases
A Trial Investigating the Safety, Tolerability and Efficacy of TransCon PTH in Adults With Hypoparathyroidism
Sponsor
Ascendis Pharma A/S
Enrollment
59
Started
2019
Primary outcome
Efficacy - Primary Endpoint During the Blinded Period
HypoparathyroidismEndocrine System DiseasesParathyroid Diseases
The Effect of Etelcalcetide on CKD-MBD
Sponsor
Thomas Nickolas, MD MS
Enrollment
22
Started
2018
Primary outcome
Percent Change in PTH Levels
Chronic Kidney Disease Mineral and Bone DisorderRenal OsteodystrophyVascular CalcificationHyperparathyroidism; Secondary, Renal
Omission of Intact Parathyroid Hormone Testing During Surgery in Treating Patients With Primary Hyperparathyroidism
NCT03011736COMPLETED
Sponsor
Roswell Park Cancer Institute
Enrollment
6
Started
2016
Primary outcome
Cure of primary hyperparathyroidism following surgery with intraoperative PTH omission
Parathyroid Gland AdenomaPrimary Hyperparathyroidism
PTH And Calcium Responses to Exercise in Older Adults Experiment 2 (PACE Sr. 2)
NCT02580604COMPLETED
Sponsor
University of Colorado, Denver
Enrollment
12
Started
2015
Primary outcome
Change in Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)
Osteoporosis
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)
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
Post Marketing Observational Study on Paricalcitol IV Administered to Venezuelan Patients
NCT01758289TERMINATED
Sponsor
AbbVie (prior sponsor, Abbott)
Enrollment
105
Started
2013
Primary outcome
Percentage of Participants Achieving at Least a 30% Reduction From Baseline in the Levels of Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) at the Final Study Visit
Chronic Kidney Disease Stage VHemodialysis
A Pilot Clinical Study Evaluating the Effect of Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) Lowering On Erythropoietin Consumption in Calcitriol-Resistant Patients
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
Postoperative Dose of Parathyroid Hormone as a Marker for the Occurrence of Hypoparathyroidism After Total Thyroidectomy
NCT02924532COMPLETED
Sponsor
Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nīmes
Enrollment
300
Started
2012
Primary outcome
the presence/absence of hypoparathyroidism
Hypoparathyroidism
Observational Program of Zemplar in Patients With End Stage Chronic Kidney Disease and Parathyroid Disorder on Hemodialysis in the Russian Federation
NCT01401478COMPLETED
Sponsor
AbbVie (prior sponsor, Abbott)
Enrollment
86
Started
2011
Primary outcome
The Percentage of Participants Who Reached a Target Level of Intact Parathyroid Hormone (iPTH) (150-300 pg/mL) Post-baseline at Least Once During the Study
Secondary Hyperparathyroidism
Comparison of Efficacy and Safety of Paricalcitol Injection With Maxacalcitol Injection in Adult Japanese Chronic Kidney Disease Subjects Receiving Hemodialysis With Secondary Hyperparathyroidism
Sponsor
AbbVie (prior sponsor, Abbott)
Enrollment
255
Started
2011
Primary outcome
Percentage of Participants With Target Intact Parathyroid Hormone (iPTH) and Without Hypercalcemia
Secondary HyperparathyroidismHemodialysis
Study of Safety and Efficacy of a rhPTH[1-84] of Fixed Doses of 25 and 50 mcg in Adults With Hypoparathyroidism (RELAY)
Sponsor
Shire
Enrollment
42
Started
2011
Primary outcome
Percentage of Subjects Who Achieved the Primary Triple Endpoint at Week 8, Based on Investigator Prescribed Data.
Hypoparathyroidism
Study to Assess Patient Management Practices and Quality of Life With Paricalcitol Capsules in the Treatment of Secondary Hyperparathyroidism in Stage 3-5 Chronic Kidney Disease Patients Not Yet on Dialysis
NCT01265992COMPLETED
Sponsor
AbbVie (prior sponsor, Abbott)
Enrollment
50
Started
2011
Primary outcome
Change From Baseline in Intact Parathyroid Hormone at 6 Months
Secondary HyperparathyroidismChronic Kidney Disease
Safety and Efficacy of Paricalcitol Capsules in Decreasing Serum Parathyroid Hormone Levels in Children Aged 10-16 With Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Sponsor
AbbVie (prior sponsor, Abbott)
Enrollment
47
Started
2010
Primary outcome
Part 1: Paricalcitol Maximum Observed Plasma Concentration (Cmax)
Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 3 and 4
PTH & Ibandronate Combination Study (PICS)
Sponsor
University of California, San Francisco
Enrollment
44
Started
2008
Primary outcome
P1NP (ng/ml) Change From Baseline.
Osteoporosis
Long-Term Therapy Outcomes When Treating Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Patients With Paricalcitol in German and Austrian Clinical Practice
NCT01083849COMPLETED
Sponsor
AbbVie (prior sponsor, Abbott)
Enrollment
761
Started
2008
Primary outcome
Percentage of Participants Who Achieved Intact Parathyroid Hormone (iPTH) Levels Within the Target Range After 12 Months
Kidney InsufficiencySecondary Hyperparathyroidism
Effects of PTH Replacement on Bone in Hypoparathyroidism
Sponsor
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR)
Enrollment
46
Started
2006
Primary outcome
Change in Bone Biopsy Cancellous Bone Volume (Cn.BV/TV)
HypoparathyroidismDiGeorge Syndrome
Publication Trend
Research publications about PTH over time
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