Testing Laboratory
Auckland Te Toka Tumai | Auckland HospitalDepartment
Chemical Pathology
Delphic Registration Code (Alpha Code)
PARA
Test Code (Numeric Code)
3670
Laboratory Handling
Sample Stability
LabPLUS has not formally investigated the stability of PTH in saline, however it has been reported to be around 4 hours by Mayo Clinic. Prompt delivery to the lab is required for best results. Otherwise freeze.
Associated Tests
Synonyms
PTH, Parathormone, PTH-STAT, FNA PTH, PTH FNA, FNA washing PTH
Turnaround Time
1 week
Specimen Type
- Aspirate
Specimen Requirements
Tube/Container Type:
Preferred
- Plain (Red Top)
Acceptable
- Specimen Container
Preferred Sample Volume (ml)
2
Minimum Sample Volume (ml)
1
No of Samples Required
1
Paediatric Specimen Requirements
Tube/Container Type:
Preferred
- Plain (Red Top)
Acceptable
- Specimen Container
Preferred Sample Volume (ml)
2
Minimum Sample Volume (ml)
1
Pre-testing Requirements
Specimen collection - Collection processes vary widely in the literature. We recommend:
1. Washing the FNA needle with saline only. Use the smallest volume of saline reasonably possible.
2. Clearly indicating on the test form the number of needles used, volume of saline used.
3. Clearly indicate the site of collection of each specimen (if more than one specimen)
4. Indicate the name of the chemical pathologist that accepted the request
5. Record time and date of collection
6. If the sample will arrive at LabPLUS within 4 hours of collection, transport promptly at room temperature. if >4hrs, send frozen
Additional Specimen Information
Note that because this test requires special handling, urgent testing, e.g. during parathyroid surgery, is not available.
Last updated: 26/08/2026