PTH – what do your numbers mean?
Have you had your PTH level measured and are unsure what the numbers mean? Here's a clear explanation of the normal range, what a too high or too low level can mean, and when it makes sense to get tested.
What is the normal range for PTH?
What is the normal range for PTH?
The normal range for parathyroid hormone (PTH) in plasma is typically between 1.6 and 6.9 pmol/L, depending on the laboratory's measurement methods and reference population. These values apply to adults and may vary slightly between different laboratories. PTH levels can also be affected by the time of day, as there is a diurnal variation with lower values in the morning and higher values in the afternoon. Furthermore, factors such as age, gender, and dietary habits can play a role. Being close to the limit values can indicate incipient dysfunction in calcium metabolism, which requires further investigation to rule out conditions such as hyperparathyroidism or hypoparathyroidism.
What does a low level mean?
A low level of PTH can lead to hypoparathyroidism, which is often caused by surgery on the thyroid or parathyroid glands. Symptoms include muscle cramps, numbness, tingling in the hands and feet, and fatigue. Other causes can be magnesium deficiency, autoimmune diseases, or genetic conditions. Particularly vulnerable groups include individuals who have undergone neck surgery or suffer from chronic kidney disease. Treatment often involves calcium and vitamin D supplements to normalize blood calcium levels. If low PTH is suspected, a doctor should be consulted for further investigation and treatment.
What does a high level mean?
A high level of PTH can indicate hyperparathyroidism, which can be primary, secondary, or tertiary. Symptoms include fatigue, depression, bone pain, kidney stones, and high blood calcium. Common causes include benign tumors in the parathyroid glands, chronic kidney disease, or vitamin D deficiency. Treatment depends on the cause and may include surgical removal of parathyroid adenomas or medical treatment with calcimimetics. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience symptoms, as untreated hyperparathyroidism can lead to serious complications such as osteoporosis and kidney failure.
Get your PTH level tested
At Celto, you can order a blood test for PTH directly online – without a referral from your doctor and without long waiting times. We have over 34 blood collection sites at public hospitals throughout Denmark, and your samples are analyzed in the same accredited laboratories used by the rest of the healthcare system. You will receive your results directly on sundhed.dk, just like all other blood tests from the public system.
How it works
When you order a blood test from Celto, you choose which markers you want to have tested – no doctor's referral necessary. After your purchase, you will receive an email with a link to our booking system, where you choose a time and place. The blood sample itself is taken by authorized healthcare personnel and typically only takes a few minutes.
Where you can get tested
Celto has over 34 blood collection sites at public hospitals and clinics throughout Denmark. You choose the location that suits you best among our partners, and there are usually available appointments within a few days. Find your nearest blood collection site →
How you get your results
Your blood samples are analyzed in the same laboratories used by your own doctor and the rest of the healthcare system, with the exact same quality and the same tests. You will receive your results directly on sundhed.dk within a few working days, and Celto will also send an easy-to-understand review of your values so you know what the numbers mean.