Hypoparathyroidism is a condition where the parathyroid glands do not produce enough parathyroid hormone (PTH), leading to disrupted calcium and phosphate balance in the body. It is caused by damage to or removal of the parathyroid glands during neck surgery, autoimmune disorders, or genetic conditions that affect gland function. The Parathyroid Hormone (PTH), Intact test is the most important test for diagnosis because it directly measures PTH levels in the blood.
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Hypoparathyroidism is caused by damage to or removal of the parathyroid glands, which are four small glands located in the neck behind the thyroid. The most common cause is accidental injury to these glands during thyroid or neck surgery. Other causes include autoimmune disorders where the body attacks its own parathyroid tissue, radiation treatment to the neck area, genetic conditions like DiGeorge syndrome, or low magnesium levels that impair parathyroid function.
The Parathyroid Hormone (PTH), Intact test is the most important test for hypoparathyroidism because it directly measures the level of intact PTH hormone in your blood. In hypoparathyroidism, PTH levels are characteristically low, confirming that your parathyroid glands are not producing enough hormone. This test should be combined with Calcium, Serum and Calcium, Ionized, Serum tests to confirm the diagnosis. The combination of low PTH with low calcium levels provides definitive evidence of hypoparathyroidism and helps your healthcare provider distinguish it from other conditions affecting calcium balance.
You should get tested if you have recently undergone thyroid or neck surgery and are experiencing symptoms like muscle cramps, spasms, or tingling in your hands, feet, or around your mouth. Testing is also important if you experience unexplained seizures, abnormal heart rhythms, fatigue, or dental problems like weak tooth enamel. You should seek testing immediately if you develop severe muscle spasms or tetany, as these indicate dangerously low calcium levels requiring urgent medical attention.
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What this means
Your PTH level is slightly elevated above the optimal range. This may indicate your parathyroid glands are working harder than normal to regulate calcium levels, which could be due to vitamin D deficiency, early kidney issues, or mild parathyroid overactivity. While this elevation is modest, it's worth investigating the underlying cause to protect your bone health long-term.
Recommended actions
Get your vitamin D levels checked, as deficiency is a common cause of elevated PTH
Ensure adequate calcium intake through dairy, leafy greens, and fortified foods
Include magnesium-rich foods like nuts, seeds, and whole grains to support calcium metabolism
Retest PTH along with calcium and vitamin D levels in 3-6 months to monitor trends
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