Hypercalcaemia in Internal Medicine

Internal medicine approach to elevated serum calcium.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Last updated: June 11, 2026

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Hypercalcaemia in Internal Medicine?

Hypercalcaemia is most often due to primary hyperparathyroidism and malignancy, which together account for 90% of cases; granulomatous disease, vitamin D toxicity and immobilisation are other causes.

Severity is graded as mild (10.5-12), moderate (12-14) and severe (>14 mg/dL); symptoms include weakness, polyuria, constipation, confusion, arrhythmia and renal failure.

Diagnostic work-up requires PTH, ionised calcium, vitamin D, phosphate, urinary calcium, ECG and screening for malignancy when indicated.

Symptoms

Muscle weakness

Polyuria and polydipsia

Constipation

Nausea

Confusion

Bone pain

Arrhythmia

Risk Factors

Primary hyperparathyroidism

Malignancy

Granulomatous disease

Vitamin D toxicity

Long-term immobilisation

Thiazide diuretic use

Excess calcium intake

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

New confusion
Persistent weakness and polyuria
Persistent constipation
Bone pain
Symptoms of arrhythmia

Treatment Methods

Aggressive intravenous saline hydration

Loop diuretic after rehydration

Bisphosphonates and denosumab

Calcitonin for rapid effect

Glucocorticoids in vitamin D toxicity

Treatment of the underlying cause

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.