Clinical Calcium Homeostasis Flashcards
1
Q
What are the investigations used to detect abnormalities of calcium control, especially hypercalcaemia?
A
Hypercalcaemia Investigations:
PTH (elevated = hyperparathyroidism
Albumin (decreased levels could indicate malignancy of parathyroid)
2
Q
What are the most common causes of hypercalcaemia?
A
- Primary hyperparathyroidism
- Hypercalcaemia of Malignancy
3
Q
What are the most common causes of hypocalcaemia?
A
Hypoparathyroidism (Low PTH)
Chronic Kidney Disease
Vitamin D deficiency
Hypomagnesemia
4
Q
What are the common symptoms and signs of Hypercalcaemia?
A
Symptoms:
- Constipation
- Depression
- Abdominal pain
- Vomitting
- Weight loss
Signs:
- Hypertension
- Pyrexia
- Renal stones
- Renal failure
5
Q
What are the common symptoms and signs of hypocalcaemia?
A
- Trousseau’s sign (wrist and fingers flex and draw together when inflating BP cuff)
- Chovstek’s sign (twitching of lip when tapping face)
- Numbness
- Seizures
- Increased muscle tone
- Impaired orientation
6
Q
How is hypercalcaemia managed?
A
- IV fluids to correct dehydration (if present)
- Bisphosphonates (inhibit osteoclast activity)
7
Q
How is hypocalcaemia managed?
A
Mild symptoms - Give Calcium orally
If Vit D deficiency - start Vitamin D supplements
Severe symptoms - IV Calcium Gluconate
