Understanding Lab Tests for Hyperparathyroidism
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Hyperparathyroidism is a condition where one or more of the parathyroid glands produce too much parathyroid hormone (PTH), leading to elevated calcium levels in the blood. This hormonal imbalance can cause various complications including kidney stones, osteoporosis, and neurological symptoms. Blood tests are essential for diagnosing hyperparathyroidism and monitoring its effects on the body.
Top Recommended Test
Calcium, Serum
This is a primary diagnostic test for hyperparathyroidism. Elevated calcium levels in the blood are the hallmark of this condition, as excess parathyroid hormone causes increased calcium release from bones and enhanced absorption from the intestines. High serum calcium can help explain symptoms like kidney stones, osteoporosis, and neurological issues.
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How Blood Tests Diagnose Hyperparathyroidism
Hyperparathyroidism is primarily diagnosed through blood tests that measure calcium levels, parathyroid hormone levels, and related markers. These tests can detect the characteristic pattern of elevated calcium and inappropriately high or normal PTH levels that define this condition. Additional tests help assess the impact on bones and vitamin D metabolism.
Other Relevant Tests
Calcium, Ionized, Serum
This test measures the active, unbound form of calcium in the blood and provides a more precise assessment than total calcium. In hyperparathyroidism, ionized calcium levels are typically elevated due to excess parathyroid hormone production, making this test particularly valuable for accurate diagnosis.
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Alkaline Phosphatase, Serum
Elevated alkaline phosphatase levels can indicate hyperparathyroidism, as excess parathyroid hormone stimulates bone turnover and causes increased release of this enzyme from bone tissue. This test helps assess the impact of the condition on bone metabolism.
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Vitamin D, 1,25-Dihydroxy, LC/MS/MS
This test measures the active form of vitamin D, which can be elevated in hyperparathyroidism. Excess parathyroid hormone stimulates the production of active vitamin D, leading to increased calcium absorption from the intestines and contributing to elevated blood calcium levels.
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C-Telopeptide, Serum
This bone resorption marker becomes elevated when hyperparathyroidism causes excessive breakdown of bone tissue. Measuring C-telopeptide levels helps assess the rate of bone loss and monitor the skeletal effects of the condition.
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Prostatic Acid Phosphatase (PAP), Serum
While primarily associated with prostate conditions, PAP levels can also be increased in hyperparathyroidism due to the complex effects of excess parathyroid hormone on various enzyme systems in the body.
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Understanding Your Results
The diagnosis of hyperparathyroidism typically requires a combination of elevated calcium levels along with inappropriately normal or high parathyroid hormone levels. Additional markers help assess the severity of the condition and its effects on bone health and mineral metabolism. Your healthcare provider will interpret these results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
