Parathyroid Hormone

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is a peptide hormone secreted by the parathyroid glands located in the neck. It plays a critical role in maintaining the body’s calcium balance, a key element of bone health. PTH increases the amount of calcium in the bloodstream by stimulating the release of calcium and phosphorus from the bones and reabsorption of calcium from the kidneys. It also increases the activity of Vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium from the diet. Low levels of PTH can lead to low levels of calcium in the blood, causing osteoporosis and other bone health problems. High levels of PTH can lead to high levels of calcium in the blood, resulting in bone loss and kidney stones. Parathyroid hormone is widely used in clinical settings to monitor and treat bone diseases, such as osteoporosis, and to diagnose and monitor patients with disorders of the parathyroid glands.