Name of the Procedure:

Parathormone (Parathyroid Hormone) Test
Common name(s): PTH Test, Parathyroid Hormone Assay

Summary

The Parathormone test measures the level of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in the blood. PTH helps regulate calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D levels in the body.

Purpose

The PTH test is primarily used to:

• Diagnose and differentiate between various types of hyperparathyroidism (overactive parathyroid glands) and hypoparathyroidism (underactive parathyroid glands).
• Determine the cause of abnormal calcium levels.
• Monitor the effectiveness of treatment for parathyroid disorders.

Indications

The PTH test is indicated for patients with:

• Abnormal calcium levels (either high or low).
• Symptoms suggesting a parathyroid disorder, such as bone pain, kidney stones, excessive urination, or unexplained fatigue.
• Chronic kidney disease, which can influence PTH levels.

Preparation

• Fasting is typically not required before a PTH test.
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications, as some may influence PTH levels.
• Blood samples should ideally be taken in the morning when PTH levels are highest.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare professional will clean the area, usually the inner elbow, with an antiseptic wipe.
2. A tourniquet is applied to the upper arm to make the veins more visible.
3. A needle is inserted into a vein, and blood is drawn into a vial.
4. The needle is removed, and pressure is applied to the puncture site to stop any bleeding.
5. The blood sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Duration

The blood draw itself takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Overall, the process, including preparation, may take around 15 to 20 minutes.

Setting

The PTH test is typically performed in:

• A hospital's outpatient lab.
• A doctor's office.
• Specialized diagnostic clinics.

Personnel

The procedure is conducted by:

• Phlebotomists or trained nurses.
• Lab technicians analyze the blood sample.

Risks and Complications

The PTH test is generally safe, but potential minor risks include:

• Slight pain or bruising at the puncture site.
• Rarely, infection or excessive bleeding.

Benefits

The PTH test helps in accurately diagnosing and managing parathyroid and calcium-related disorders. Knowing the PTH level can guide appropriate treatments, improving the patient’s overall health.

Recovery

• The patient can resume normal activities immediately after the test.
• Apply a bandage and pressure if there is any minor bleeding.
• Patients are advised to drink plenty of fluids to replenish the blood drawn.

Alternatives

• Alternative tests may include calcium and phosphorus blood tests, vitamin D levels, and urine tests for calcium excretion.
• Imaging studies such as ultrasound or sestamibi scans may be used to evaluate parathyroid gland abnormalities.

Patient Experience

• The procedure involves minimal pain, comparable to a standard blood test.
• If anxious about needles, patients should communicate this to their healthcare provider to ensure comfort measures are taken, such as numbing the area or using a smaller needle.
• Any discomfort usually subsides quickly after the blood draw.