Hyperparathyroidism (HPT) occurs due to an overactive parathyroid gland. In this instance, an individual can experience a wide range of physical symptoms that range from mild to severe. Read more about the symptoms of Hyperparathyroidism in the infographic below.
Common Symptoms of Hyperparathyroidism
Hyperparathyroidism (HPT) occurs due to an overactive parathyroid gland. In this instance, an individual can experience a wide range of physical symptoms that range from mild to severe.
What Is Hyperparathyroidism?
HPT is a condition that causes excess production of parathyroid hormone (PTH), which helps the body maintain the proper balance of calcium in the bloodstream.
What Are the Types of Hyperparathyroidism?
Primary HPT (PHPT) refers to enlargement of one or more parathyroid glands. Secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) occurs due to another disease and causes PTH levels to gradually increase.
What Are the Symptoms of Hyperparathyroidism?
- Osteoporosis
- Kidney stones
- Abdominal pain
- Depression
- Joint pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Excessive urination
- Fatigue
What Causes Hyperparathyroidism?
- PHPT:
- Noncancerous growth (adenoma) on one or more parathyroid glands
- Enlargement (hyperplasia) of two or more parathyroid glands
- Malignant tumor
- SHPT:
- Calcium deficiency
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Ongoing kidney failure
Are You at Risk of Experiencing Hyperparathyroidism?
Individuals face an increased risk of HPT if they:
- Are women who have experienced menopause
- Have experienced a severe calcium or vitamin D deficiency
- Have underwent radiation treatment for cancer that exposed the neck to radiation
- Have taken lithium
- Are dealing with multiple endocrine neoplasia, type 1 or other inherited disorders
How Is Hyperparathyroidism Diagnosed?
- Blood Tests:
- Blood calcium and ionized calcium
- PTH level
- Vitamin D level
- Magnesium and phosphorous levels
- Basic chemistry and creatinine levels
- Alkaline phosphate
- 24-hour urine calcium and creatinine
- Diagnostic Tests:
- Bone mineral density
- Imaging
How Is Hyperparathyroidism Treated?
- Monitoring:
- Involves periodic assessment of a patient’s blood calcium levels
- Surgery:
- Involves the removal of enlarged parathyroid glands or those that have a tumor
What Tests Are Performed Before Hyperparathyroidism Surgery to locate the abnormal parathyroid gland?
- Sestamibi Scan:
- Uses a radioactive compound to identify overactive parathyroid glands
- Ultrasound:
- Leverages soundwaves to produce images of the parathyroid glands and any surrounding tissue
- SPECT & CT Fusion Scan:
- Combines sestamibi scan and CT scan images to pinpoint the location of an enlarged parathyroid gland
- 4D Parathyroid CT Scan:
- Provides highly detailed images to help determine the precise location of an abnormal parathyroid gland
What Is Minimally Invasive Parathyroidectomy for Hyperparathyroidism?
Minimally invasive parathyroidectomy (MIP) is an alternative to standard parathyroid surgery, and its benefits include:
- Short surgery time
- High success rate
- Minimal scarring
Are You a Good Candidate for Minimally Invasive Parathyroidectomy Surgery?
Dr. Babak Larian of the CENTER for Advanced Parathyroid Surgery can evaluate a patient to determine if this individual is a good candidate for MIP.
Schedule a Hyperparathyroidism Treatment Consultation with Dr. Larian
To learn more about HPT treatment or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Larian, please call the CENTER today at 310-461-0300.
