The thoracic spine (upper back) has a normal outward curvature that is medically referred to as kyphosis or the kyphotic curve by which the spine is bent forward. In this discussion, the term kyphosis will be used to discuss abnormal kyphosis. The spine is normally straight when looking from the front.
A parathyroid hormone (PTH) blood test measures the level of parathyroid hormone in the blood. This test is used to help identify hyperparathyroidism, to find the cause of abnormal calcium levels, or to check the status of chronic kidney disease. PTH controls calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood.
The so-called intact PTH is the most frequently ordered parathyroid hormone test. It is used to help diagnose the cause of a low or high calcium level and to help distinguish between parathyroid-related and non-parathyroid-related causes. It may also be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment when an individual has a parathyroid-related condition.