Intermediate
Technical
IVT
parathyroid hormone
Also written as: PTH — parathyroid hormone
Hormone secreted by parathyroid glands that regulates calcium and phosphate metabolism.
Full Definition
An 84-amino acid peptide hormone produced by the chief cells of the parathyroid glands. PTH increases serum calcium levels through multiple mechanisms: stimulating osteoclast activity in bone, increasing calcium reabsorption in the kidneys, and promoting vitamin D activation. Intraoperative PTH monitoring during parathyroidectomy helps confirm complete removal of hyperfunctioning tissue. Postoperative PTH levels are crucial for detecting hypoparathyroidism.
Usage
Usage note: Abbreviate as PTH in clinical contexts; spell out in patient education materials.
In Context
- "Intraoperative parathyroid hormone levels dropped by 85% following adenoma removal." — Surgical procedure note
- "Postoperative parathyroid hormone monitoring is essential for detecting permanent hypoparathyroidism." — Clinical protocol
Also known as
PTH
Don't confuse with
parathyroid-related protein
calcitonin