Blood test (phlebotomy)

Vitamin D and calcium are essential nutrients for bone health. Parathyroid hormone carefully maintains the correct level of calcium in the blood versus the storage component in the bone. It may be important to check this hormone if your blood levels of calcium are too low or too high. Calcium in the blood however, does not reflect the levels stored in the bone nor does it reflect on bone density. Our bone turnover test is a better measure of current bone loss.

Blood draws can be requested at a number of different locations across Ireland including Dublin, Galway, Cork, Waterford, Mullingar and Newbridge. Please enquire with our team.

This test measures:

• Calcium and corrected calcium
• Vitamin D
• Parathyroid hormone (PTH)
• Additional tests – alkaline phosphatase, inorganic phosphate

Goes well with:

• Bone turnover test (coming soon)

Jeremy had been diagnosed with osteopenia and possible vascular calcification in connection with cardiovascular disease. As part of a wider investigation into bone health, Jeremy undertook this blood test to asses his vitamin D levels and to ensure his blood levels of calcium and parathyroid hormone were normal.

Jeremy started a protocol to reduce his risk factors of cardiovascular disease. He started on appropriate vitamin D supplement according to his blood test. His parathyroid hormone levels were normal. Jeremy also commenced a moderately high dose of vitamin K2 to ensure that the calcium was transported to his bones and not contributing to vascular calcification.

Key findings:

• Sub optimal levels of Vitamin D
• Normal parathyroid hormone levels and serum calcium