Jack's Hyperparathyroid Questions

Question 1

What is the main function of the parathyroid glands?

Answer 1

-act to increase calcium levels in the blood

Question 2

What is the usual cause of primary hyperparathyroidism?

Answer 2

• adenoma of the one of the four parathyroid glands, which causes excessive secretion of parathyroid hormone
• or hyperplasia or carcinoma

Question 3

What conditions cause secondary hyperparathydism?

Answer 3

• Chronic Renal Failure and poor production of Vit D which will decrease Calcium
• malignant tumors–breast, lung, pancreas
• Calcium deficiency

Question 4

What is the typical clinical presentation of Hyperparathyroidism?

Answer 4

-“moans, groans, stones, and bones”

moans: mental changes
groans: abdominal nausea, constipation etc
Stones: kidney stones
Bones: bone pain, arthralgia

Skin: pruritus

Question 5

How is Hyperparathyroid Dx?

Answer 5

• elevated PTH is diagnostic
• increased Ca > 10.5
• elevated Calcium and phosphate in urine
• X-ray, salt and pepper skull, subperiosteal bone resorption in fingers, demineralization, cysts of the jaw

Question 6

What is the Tx for hyperparathyroidism?

Answer 6

-asymptomatic may not need tx

• surgery
• Fluids, fluids, fluids, admit and IV fluids if needed
• IV Bisphospnates
  
  • Pamidronate
  • Zoledronic acid
• Cinacalcet–a calcimimetic
• Vit D
• Propranolol to protect the heart against elevated Ca

Question 7

What are 2 complications of surgical removal of the parathyroid?

Answer 7

• hypocalcemia, tx with Ca supplement

- Hyperthyroidism from manipulation of the thyroid and tx with propranolol