Hypoparathyroidism Flashcards
1
Q
Caused by?
A
Iatrogenic causes: post bilateral thyroidectomy
2
Q
What does low parathyroid hormone (PTH) cause?
A
- Hyperphosphatemia
- Hypocalcemia
- Impaired vitamin D production
3
Q
Clinical signs
A
- Seizures
- Twitching
- Nervousness
- Tetany
- Ataxia
4
Q
Cardiovascular signs
A
- Paroxysmal (sudden and intense) tachycardia
- Muffled heart sounds
- Weak femoral pulses
5
Q
Biochemistry
A
- Profound hypocalcemia (<6.5mg/dL)
- Hyperphosphatemia (>6.0mg/dL)
- Normal BUN/creatinine, Mg, protein and albumin
6
Q
Diagnosis
A
Test PTH levels
-will be low to non-existence
7
Q
Tx
A
Calcium gluconate IV q6-8hourly until PO supplementation of Ca and vit D can be started
8
Q
What is the function of the parathyroid?
A
Produces PTH that controls calcium and phosphorus production
