Hypoparathyroidism Flashcards
what is hypoparathyroidism
relative or absolute deficiency of plasma parathyroid hormone (PTH) synthesis and secretion
in a deficiency of parathyroid hormone, what will happen to serum calcium levels
it will drop
what can cause hypoparathyroidism
genetics or surgery can be a cause of hypoparathyroidism; damage to the PTglands during thyroid surgery for example
risk factors for hypoparathyroidism
thyroid/ parathyroid surgery, hypomagnesaemia, hypercalcaemia
symptoms and signs on physical examination of hypoparathyroidism
malnutritions, malabsorption, diarrhoea
muscle twitches, cramps, spasms,
tingling and numbness
poor memory and slowed thinking
chvosteks sign
what is chvosteks sign
tapping branch of the facial nerve and if the face twitches, there is a positive chvosteks sign indicative of hypocalcaemia
what is trousseau sign
Painful clasping response of fingers and hands when blood pressure cuff is inflated above systolic blood pressure
what investigations will be done for suspected hypoparathyroidism
serum calcium, serum PTH (they will both be LOW)
ECG (prolonged QT interval)
serum magnesium (low)
vitamin D levels
how to manage hypoparathyroidism
give calcium (and Calcitriol if necessary)
if magnesium is low, it needs to be replaced
via what type of administration will calcium be given
IV if severe hypocalcaemia
if mild/moderate, ORAL administration
prognosis for mild/temporary hypoparathyroidism
good prognosis with treatment
prognosis for chronic/severe hypoparathyroidism
usually complicated due to risks of over treatment with Vitamin D and calcium leading to renal stones etc.
