PTH, Intact · low result
What does a low PTH, Intact mean?
Short answer
Low PTH with a high calcium means the glands are correctly suppressed and the calcium is coming from elsewhere — excess vitamin D, certain cancers, granulomatous disease, or medications — which makes it a finding to act on. Low PTH with a low calcium is hypoparathyroidism, most often after thyroid or neck surgery, or autoimmune. Low magnesium can also suppress PTH.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
When does this result need same-day care?
- Low PTH with a calcium above ~13 mg/dL, or with confusion or severe dehydration — same-day care
What is the normal range for PTH, Intact?
- age 18+: 15.0 – 65.0 pg/mL
Can reflect parathyroid issues or high calcium from another source.
Full reference table, citations and testing options: PTH, Intact biomarker page.
What are the common causes of low PTH, Intact?
- Non-parathyroid hypercalcemia: vitamin D excess, cancer-related, sarcoidosis, thiazides, milk-alkali
- Hypoparathyroidism after thyroid/parathyroid surgery; autoimmune; genetic
- Severe magnesium deficiency
- Recent large calcium intake (transient)
What symptoms go with low PTH, Intact?
- High calcium: thirst, urination, constipation, confusion
- Low calcium: tingling, cramps, muscle spasms
What do clinicians usually check next?
- Calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, 25-hydroxyvitamin D and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D
- Kidney function; PTHrP and further evaluation if calcium is high with no vitamin D excess
- Prompt clinical follow-up — low PTH with high calcium is not a wait-and-see pattern
Follow-up tests available at TestWell: Magnesium ($19.99), Calcium ($26.99), Phosphorus ($18.99).
How do you recheck PTH, Intact?
Prices are cash-pay; every order adds one $6 lab processing fee. Physician authorization is included; no insurance or referral needed.
| Test or panel | Type | Price | Fasting | Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Body Panel | Panel · 49 tests | $499.99 | Yes | 5–10 business days |
| PTH (Parathyroid Hormone) | Test | $59.99 | No | 2–4 business days |
Common questions
Is low PTH ever normal?
Yes when calcium is high from another source — the glands are doing their job by switching off. The work-up then focuses on that other source.
Sources
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.