Parathyroid Profile
Understanding Parathyroid Profile
What is Parathyroid Profile?
The Parathyroid Profile is a comprehensive set of blood tests tailored to assess the functioning of the parathyroid glands, which are vital for maintaining the balance of calcium and phosphorus in the body. This profile includes testing key parameters such as parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D levels.
The parathyroid glands are two pairs of small, oval-shaped glands positioned behind the thyroid in the front of the neck. These glands produce parathyroid hormone (PTH), which plays a vital role in regulating calcium and phosphorus levels and influencing vitamin D levels.
The Parathyroid Profile includes blood tests that tell how well the parathyroid glands are working and identify conditions associated with imbalances in parathyroid hormones, calcium, phosphorus, and, to some extent, vitamin D levels. Together, these tests provide valuable information for doctors to evaluate and manage disorders related to parathyroid function and mineral metabolism. Regular monitoring of parathyroid glands is essential for individuals with conditions affecting calcium and phosphorus homeostasis and those at risk of bone disorders or kidney problems. Additionally, this test can be done when individuals exhibit symptoms related to calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D imbalance, such as persistent bone pain, impaired kidney function, long-term digestive problems, pain or discomfort in joints, muscle weakness, etc. These symptoms may indicate disorders such as hypoparathyroidism or hyperparathyroidism, where parathyroid glands are either underactive or overactive, respectively.
Overnight fasting for at least 8-12 hours is needed before undertaking the Parathyroid Profile. However, drinking water before the test is acceptable. PTH is released in a rhythmic pattern, with increased levels during the night; therefore, you may need to take the test at a certain time of day. Also, tell your doctor about all the medications or supplements, including calcium, you are taking before undertaking this test, as these may interfere with the test results.
Lab test results may vary across different laboratories. Abnormal test results require an expert interpretation; therefore, never try to self-medicate at home based solely on these results, and always consult a doctor for a proper understanding of the test results. The insights from this profile help the doctor tailor appropriate treatment plans accordingly.
What is Parathyroid Profile used for?
The Parathyroid Profile is done:
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To identify disorders associated with parathyroid gland function and mineral metabolism, including primary and secondary hyperparathyroidism.
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To assess PTH levels to understand the parathyroid gland’s role in regulating calcium levels in the blood.
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To evaluate the impact of PTH on phosphorus levels, providing insights into the regulation of this essential mineral.
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To evaluate the influence of PTH on calcium release from bones, which is crucial for bone health
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To evaluate the impact of PTH on vitamin D levels, vital for calcium absorption.
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To diagnose and monitor disorders like hypoparathyroidism or hyperparathyroidism
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To assess the kidney function related to mineral regulation as PTH impacts the reabsorption of minerals in the kidneys.
What does Parathyroid Profile measure?
Contains 4 testsThe Parathyroid Profile includes a series of blood tests that help evaluate the health and function of parathyroid glands. This profile measures the levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D in the blood.
PTH helps maintain calcium balance by influencing its absorption from the intestines, release from bones, and reabsorption by the kidneys. This hormone ensures that calcium concentration in the blood remains within a normal range, supporting various essential physiological functions such as bone health, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction. PTH acts on the kidneys, not only promoting the reabsorption of phosphorus from the urine back into the bloodstream but also stimulating calcium release from bones. This dual action indirectly impacts phosphorus levels, as calcium and phosphorus are closely linked to bone metabolism. Moreover, PTH stimulates the production of active vitamin D in the kidneys, enhancing calcium absorption from the intestines. This intricate interplay between PTH and vitamin D is critical for maintaining calcium homeostasis in the body.
Serum Calcium
The Serum Calcium test measures the levels of calcium in the body. Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body; most of it is present in the bones and teeth, and the remaining portion (around 1%) is found in the blood. It is usually present in two forms in blood in about equal amounts: "bound calcium," which is attached to proteins in the blood, and "free calcium or ionized calcium," which is not attached to any protein.
The Serum Calcium test cannot be used to check for lack of calcium in your diet or osteoporosis (loss of calcium from bones) as the body can have normal calcium levels even in dietary calcium deficiency. Moreover, the body can normalize mild calcium deficiency by releasing the calcium stored in bones.
Know more about Serum Calcium
Phosphorus, Serum
The Phosphorus, Serum test is used to evaluate the level of phosphorus in your blood. Phosphorus is an inherent component of all living cells in the system and most, 85 percent, is located in the tissues of bones and teeth, while the remaining 15 percent is part of the blood and other soft tissues. Your body obtains its daily phosphorus requirements through dietary sources and under normal conditions, once the necessary amounts of phosphorus are absorbed by the cells and tissues, the remaining is eliminated via the urine.
Besides consuming a wholesome diet enriched with sufficient amounts of phosphorus, it is also important to ensure ample intake of calcium and vitamin D, to maintain overall health.
Know more about Phosphorus, Serum
Vitamin D (25-Hydroxy)
The Vitamin D (25-Hydroxy) test measures the levels of vitamin D in the body. Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that can be synthesized in the body upon healthy exposure to sunlight or absorbed from dietary sources. It majorly exists in two forms: vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Vitamin D2 is present in plants, such as yeast or mushrooms, and is available as a supplement in fortified foods, and vitamin D3 is found in foods like cheese, green vegetables, mushrooms, egg yolks, and fatty fish.
Vitamin D is available in two key forms: D2 (present in plants like mushrooms and in some fortified foods) and D3 (present in foods like cheese, green vegetables, egg yolks, mushrooms, and fatty fish).
Both forms of vitamin D need to be converted in the liver and kidneys before the body can use them effectively. This test shows the total level of vitamin D (D2 + D3) circulating in the body and guides your doctor in recommending the right treatment or lifestyle changes if needed.
Know more about Vitamin D (25-Hydroxy)
PTH (Intact Parathyroid Hormone)
A PTH (Intact Parathyroid Hormone) test measures the levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in the blood. PTH regulates calcium and phosphorus levels in the body. PTH levels are regulated by a feedback loop with calcium in the blood. Low calcium stimulates PTH release, and high calcium inhibits it. Problems like tumors or damage to the parathyroid glands can disrupt this balance, leading to abnormal PTH levels.
Monitoring of PTH levels is important in managing disorders affecting bone and mineral metabolism, and a PTH (Intact Parathyroid Hormone) test helps assess the function of parathyroid glands and diagnose conditions related to calcium and phosphorus imbalance.
Know more about PTH (Intact Parathyroid Hormone)
Frequently Asked Questions about Parathyroid Profile
Q. Why is the Parathyroid Profile done?
Q. What tests are included in the Parathyroid Profile?
Q. Is fasting required before taking the Parathyroid Profile?
Q. What are the most common causes of low parathyroid hormone levels?
Q. What are the most common causes of high parathyroid hormone levels?
Q. What is the role of calcium in the Parathyroid Profile?
Q. How does the parathyroid hormone affect phosphorus?
Q. How does vitamin D affect PTH levels?
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References
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- Primary Parathyroidism. [Internet]. NIH; Mar. 2019. [Accessed 15 Feb. 2023]. Available from: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endocrine-diseases/primary-hyperparathyroidism
- Hyperparathyroidism. [Internet]. NHS; 24 May. 2021 [Accessed 15 Feb. 2023]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hyperparathyroidism/
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- Medas F, Erdas E, Loi G, Podda F, Barca L, Pisano G, Calò PG. Intraoperative parathyroid hormone (PTH) testing in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism and PTH levels in the normal range. BMC Surg. 2019 Apr 24;18(Suppl 1):124. [Accessed 15 Feb. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7402568/
- Dawale K, Agrawal A. Parathyroid Hormone Secretion and Related Syndromes. Cureus. 2022 Oct 13;14(10):e30251. [Accessed 15 Feb. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9650928/
- Drake TM, Gupta V. Calcium. [Updated 2024 Jan 8]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557683/
- Goyal R, Jialal I. Hyperphosphatemia. [Updated 2023 Jun 12]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551586/
- Khundmiri SJ, Murray RD, Lederer E. PTH and Vitamin D. Compr Physiol. 2016 Mar 15;6(2):561-601. [Accessed 15 Feb. 2024]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27065162/#:~:text=PTH%20and%20Vitamin%20D%20form,regulator%20is%20circulating%20ionized%20calcium.
- Nussey S, Whitehead S. Endocrinology: An Integrated Approach. Oxford: BIOS Scientific Publishers; 2001. Chapter 5, The parathyroid glands and vitamin D. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK24/
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