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.
Parathyroid hormone (PTH), also called parathormone or parathyrin, is a hormone secreted by the parathyroid glands that is important in bone remodeling, which is an ongoing process in which bone tissue is alternately resorbed and rebuilt over time. PTH is secreted in response to low blood serum calcium (Ca 2+) levels.