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Hypoparathyroidism

Decreased blood calcium and increased phosphorus due to inadequate PTH production.

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 Hypoparathyroidism?

Hypoparathyroidism is a condition in which insufficient parathyroid hormone (PTH) production by the parathyroid glands leads to low blood calcium (hypocalcemia) and elevated phosphorus levels. The most common cause is damage to or removal of the parathyroid glands during thyroid or parathyroid surgery. Autoimmune forms are less common.

Calcium is essential for muscle and nerve cell function; hypocalcemia leads to neuromuscular irritability and can cause numbness in the hands and feet, muscle cramps, and emergencies such as laryngospasm or seizures in severe cases.

Treatment uses active vitamin D (calcitriol) and oral calcium supplements. In cases where adequate control cannot be achieved, recombinant PTH injections may be considered as an option.

Symptoms

Numbness and tingling in hands, feet, and around the lips
Muscle cramps and spasms
Tetany (positive Trousseau and Chvostek signs)
Laryngospasm and shortness of breath (severe hypocalcemia)
Seizures
Fatigue, anxiety, and depression
Cataracts (long-standing hypocalcemia)

Risk Factors

History of thyroid or parathyroid surgery
Radiation exposure to the neck region
Autoimmune polyglandular syndrome
Family history of hypoparathyroidism or DiGeorge syndrome
Magnesium deficiency (causes functional hypoparathyroidism)
Wilson disease or hemochromatosis
Granulomatous diseases

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Numbness in the hands or muscle cramps after thyroid surgery
  • Development of seizures or laryngospasm (emergency)
  • Detection of low calcium on blood test
  • Worsening symptoms of calcium deficiency in known hypoparathyroidism
  • Detection of cataract or brain calcifications

Treatment Methods

01
Oral calcium carbonate or calcium citrate supplements
02
Active vitamin D (calcitriol or alfacalcidol)
03
IV calcium gluconate infusion in acute hypocalcemia crisis (emergency)
04
Magnesium replacement if magnesium deficiency is present
05
Recombinant PTH (1-34 or 1-84): in selected refractory cases
06
Restriction of foods high in phosphorus (dairy products, processed foods)

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.