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Hyperparathyroidism

Elevated blood calcium due to excessive PTH production by the parathyroid glands.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

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

References (5)

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

What is Hyperparathyroidism?

Hyperparathyroidism is elevation of blood calcium resulting from excessive production of parathyroid hormone (PTH) by the parathyroid glands in the neck. In the primary form, excess production arises from adenoma, hyperplasia, or carcinoma within the gland itself. In the secondary form, PTH rises in response to hypocalcemia caused by conditions such as vitamin D deficiency or chronic kidney disease.

Primary hyperparathyroidism is a leading cause of hypercalcemia. Most patients are asymptomatic and are diagnosed when blood tests incidentally show elevated calcium. Chronic hypercalcemia can cause wide-ranging problems including kidney stones, osteoporosis, muscle weakness, and depression.

Asymptomatic primary hyperparathyroidism may be followed conservatively, whereas patients with symptoms or bone/renal complications undergo surgery to remove the parathyroid adenoma.

Symptoms

Often asymptomatic (asymptomatic hypercalcemia)
Fatigue, weakness, and depression
Bone pain and fracture risk (osteoporosis)
Recurrent kidney stones
Nausea, constipation, and loss of appetite
Frequent urination and excessive thirst (nephrogenic DI)
Altered consciousness in severe hypercalcemia (hyperparathyroid crisis)

Risk Factors

Female sex and advanced age
Radiation exposure to the neck area
Genetic syndromes such as MEN1 or MEN2A
Long-term lithium therapy
Vitamin D deficiency (for the secondary form)
Chronic kidney disease (secondary and tertiary forms)
Family history of hyperparathyroidism

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Elevated calcium on blood testing
  • Recurrent kidney stones
  • Osteoporosis or unexplained bone fractures
  • Fatigue, depression, and muscle weakness occurring together
  • Sudden rise in calcium in known hyperparathyroidism

Treatment Methods

01
In asymptomatic cases: every 6-12 months monitoring of calcium, renal function, and bone density
02
Parathyroidectomy (surgery) in symptomatic or complicated cases
03
Adequate fluid intake reduces kidney-stone risk
04
Cinacalcet (a calcimimetic): lowers blood calcium when surgery is not appropriate
05
Bisphosphonate therapy if osteoporosis is present
06
Vitamin D and calcium replacement in the secondary form

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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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.