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PTHrP is similar to a fragment of parathyroid hormone – a hormone produced by the parathyroid glands. Its biological action is also similar to that of parathyroid hormone (it leads to hypercalcemia and hypophosphatemia).
PTHrP is a hormone whose structure is similar to a fragment of the parathyroid hormone PTH (secreted by the parathyroid glands). The properties of PTHrP lead to an increased release of calcium in the kidneys, with a minimal effect on the absorption of calcium from the gastrointestinal tract. The action of this peptide stimulates an increase in serum calcium levels in the blood. A peptide structurally related to parathyroid hormone may be produced by the following neoplasms: kidney, bladder, lung, breast and gastrointestinal tract. Sometimes it also occurs in people with lymphoma or leukemia.
When do we perform the PTHrP test?
1. Suspicion of the presence of a tumor secreting PTHrP or parathyroid hormone and thus leading to osteolysis.
2. Differentiation of the causes of osteoporosis.
3. Diagnostics of pathological fractures.
4. Differentiation of hypercalcemia.
5. Diagnosis of osteoporosis.
The course of research on a peptide structurally related to parathyroid hormone
Test material: serum.
Preparation for the test: on an empty stomach (at least 8 hours). The day before the test, you should avoid drinking alcohol and fatty and heavy meals. Immediately before the examination, it is allowed to drink a small amount of water.
The course of the PTHrP study: one-time blood sampling from a vein in the arm.
Waiting time for the PTHrP result: 1 Day.
Standard: less than 1,5 pmol / l.
Comments: PTHrP also plays a physiological role – in utero it is responsible for the differentiation of the mesenchymal tissue of the mammary glands and teeth, and the formation of bones on the cartilage basis. By ensuring the proper supply of calcium, it also plays a role in the maturation of the mammary glands and lactation. Before performing the test, you should always inform about the medications, herbal preparations and supplements you are taking that could affect the credibility of the test.
Complications and management after the PTHrP test
Complications related to the study of this peptide are limited to the blood collection itself. Sometimes there is inflammation or a hematoma at the injection site. It should be remembered that the test result requires consultation with a doctor in any case.
In people with elevated PTHrP levels, a specialist may order imaging tests, such as: abdominal ultrasound, chest X-ray, breast ultrasound and mammography. Sometimes the diagnosis is extended to gastrointestinal neoplasms. Then, colonoscopy and gastroscopy are performed.