Hypercalcaemia Flashcards
What is the normal serum calcium concentration?
2.2mmol/L - 2.6mmol/L
What is hypercalcaemia?
It is defined as a serum calcium concentration greater than 2.6mmol/L
What are the three classifications of hypercalcaemia?
Mild Hypercalcaemia
Moderate Hypercalcaemia
Severe Hypercalcaemia
What is mild hypercalcaemia?
It is defined as serum calcium levels below 3mmol/L
What is moderate hypercalcaemia?
It is is defined as serum calcium levels between 3mmol/L - 3.5mmol/L
What is severe hypercalcaemia?
It is defined as serum calcium levels greater than 3.5mmol/L
What are the eight risk factors of hypercalcaemia?
Primary Hyperparathyroidism
Malignancy
Addison’s Disease
Acromegaly
Hyperthyroidism
Sarcoidosis
Paget’s Disease
Drug Administration
What is the most common cause of hypercalcaemia in community patients?
Primary Hyperparathyroidism
What is the most common cause of hypercalcaemia in hospitalised patients?
Malignancy
Which four malignancies are associated with hypercalcaemia?
Squamous cell lung cancer
Prostate cancer
Bone metastases
Myeloma
What two drugs are associated with hypercalcaemia?
Thiazide diuretics
Vitamin D supplements
What are the twelve clinical features of hypercalcaemia?
“Bones, stones, groans and psychic moans”
Fatigue
Bone Pain
Osteoporosis
Polyuria
Polydipsia
Renal Calculi
Abdominal Pain
Constipation
Corneal Calcification
Confusion
Low Mood
Hypertension
What are the two investigations used to diagnose hypercalcaemia?
Blood Tests
ECG Scan
What four blood test results indicate hypercalcaemia?
Increased Calcium Levels
Decreased Phosphate Levels
Normal/Increased PTH Levels
Increased ACE Levels
What is the first line investigation used to investigate hypercalcaemia?
Parathyroid hormone blood test