1. Introduction to Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)

What is Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)? Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) is a peptide hormone secreted by the parathyroid glands, regulating calcium and phosphate levels in the blood. It increases blood calcium by promoting bone resorption, enhancing renal calcium reabsorption, and stimulating vitamin D activation. Measuring PTH levels in blood is essential for diagnosing disorders of calcium metabolism, such as hyperparathyroidism, hypoparathyroidism, and related bone or kidney diseases.

2. What is a PTH Unit Converter?

Definition: The PTH Unit Converter converts PTH concentrations between various units, enabling standardization of laboratory results for clinical use.

Purpose: It assists clinicians and researchers in interpreting PTH levels across different measurement units (e.g., pmol/L to pg/mL), ensuring accurate diagnosis and monitoring of calcium-related disorders.

3. Importance of PTH Unit Conversions

Converting PTH concentrations between units is critical for:

• Standardizing Results: Different labs report PTH in various units (e.g., pmol/L, pg/mL); conversion ensures consistency for diagnosis.
• Clinical Diagnosis: Accurate conversions aid in diagnosing primary, secondary, or tertiary hyperparathyroidism, hypoparathyroidism, and monitoring treatment efficacy.
• Research and Collaboration: Enables comparison of PTH data across studies or institutions using different measurement standards.

4. Clinical Significance

Elevated Levels: High PTH levels may indicate primary hyperparathyroidism (e.g., parathyroid adenoma), secondary hyperparathyroidism (e.g., due to chronic kidney disease or vitamin D deficiency), or tertiary hyperparathyroidism. Symptoms include hypercalcemia, bone pain, and kidney stones.

Low Levels: Low PTH levels are associated with hypoparathyroidism (e.g., post-surgical, autoimmune), leading to hypocalcemia. Symptoms include muscle cramps, tetany, and seizures.

Normal Ranges:

• Typically 10–65 pg/mL (1.1–6.9 pmol/L).
• Values vary by lab, assay, and patient factors—consult a healthcare provider for interpretation.

5. Precautions

Interferences:

• PTH levels are influenced by serum calcium, vitamin D status, kidney function, and medications (e.g., bisphosphonates, diuretics).
• Sample timing (preferably morning) and handling (e.g., avoiding hemolysis, timely processing) are critical, as PTH is unstable.
• Interpret PTH levels with serum calcium, phosphate, vitamin D, and renal function tests—consult a healthcare provider for accuracy.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Why are there different units for PTH?
A: Different units reflect varying standards; pmol/L is the SI unit, while pg/mL is commonly used in clinical practice, particularly in certain regions.

Q: What is a normal PTH level?
A: Normal PTH is typically 10–65 pg/mL (1.1–6.9 pmol/L). Consult a healthcare provider for interpretation.

Q: Can this converter be used for other hormones?
A: No, this converter is specific to PTH; other hormones (e.g., calcitonin, thyroid hormones) have different units and conversion factors—consult a healthcare provider for accuracy.