Intact PTH (iPTH) Test in Kathmandu

About this test

Intact PTH measures the complete, biologically active parathyroid hormone molecule released by the four small parathyroid glands in your neck. This hormone is the body's master regulator of calcium: when blood calcium dips, PTH rises to pull calcium from bone, conserve it in the kidneys, and activate vitamin D in the gut; when calcium is high, PTH should switch off. Because of this tight feedback loop, the result is only meaningful when read alongside a simultaneous serum calcium, and often phosphate and vitamin D as well. A doctor typically orders it to work out the cause of an abnormal calcium reading. High PTH with high calcium points to primary hyperparathyroidism, often a benign adenoma found incidentally on routine bloods, which may cause kidney stones, bone thinning, fatigue, low mood, constipation, or excessive thirst. High PTH with low or normal calcium suggests the gland is working overtime to compensate, classically from longstanding vitamin D deficiency or chronic kidney disease, both of which are common in Kathmandu where limited sun exposure, vegetarian diets, and rising rates of diabetic kidney disease all play a part. A low PTH with low calcium instead suggests underactive glands, sometimes after thyroid or neck surgery. The intact assay is also a key tool in monitoring people on dialysis to guide bone-protection treatment. Results guide whether you need surgery, vitamin D and calcium replacement, or simply observation, so do bring along any previous calcium and bone-density reports when you discuss them with your physician.

Sample type

Blood (serum)

Preparation

No strict fasting needed, but a morning sample is preferred because PTH follows a daily rhythm. If your doctor has also asked for calcium or vitamin D, those are usually drawn from the same visit. Tell us about any calcium, vitamin D, or lithium supplements you take.

Turnaround time

Reports for Intact PTH (iPTH) are typically ready within: Same Day. Reports can be collected at the clinic during opening hours or shared via WhatsApp once they are ready.

Also known as

Other hormones tests we run

These are routinely ordered alongside Intact PTH (iPTH) or as part of the same diagnostic workup.

How to book

WhatsApp is the fastest way — message us with the test name and your preferred time, and we'll confirm a slot the same day. You can also walk into the clinic at Rumba Chowk, Sanobharang any day between 7AM and 8PM, or fill in our online booking form.