#443 Primary Hyperparathyroidism: Stones, bones, and almost certainly some groans
Jun 10, 2024
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Dr. Lindsay Kuo from Temple University Hospital discusses primary hyperparathyroidism. Topics include surgery criteria, vitamin D's role, PTH testing, parathyroid imaging, and post-op monitoring. The episode covers complications, normocalcemic primary hypoparathyroidism, and normohormonal primary hyperparathyroidism.
Identifying surgical candidates based on symptoms, bone density, and urinary calcium levels is crucial for primary hyperparathyroidism management.
Diagnostic workup for primary hyperparathyroidism includes a 24-hour urine calcium test and imaging studies to assess bone density and potential surgical indicators.
The decision-making process for surgery in primary hyperparathyroidism involves patient age, symptoms, and adherence to follow-up surveillance, influencing the choice between surgery or observation.
Balancing surgical recommendations with patient preferences, age, and comorbidities is essential for managing primary hyperparathyroidism effectively.
Deep dives
Main Ideas
Primary hyperparathyroidism and the surgical decision-making process were discussed in the podcast episode. Dr. Lindsay Kuo, an endocrine surgeon, shared insights and guidelines regarding identifying patients who require surgery based on symptoms, bone density, urinary calcium levels, age, and other factors. Surgical criteria include symptomatic patients with kidney stones, fractures, or significant osteoporosis. Factors like young age and feedback from patients play a role in deciding on surgery. Patients not meeting surgical criteria may opt for observation and yearly surveillance.
Diagnostic Workup
Dr. Kuo highlighted the importance of a diagnostic workup for primary hyperparathyroidism, including a 24-hour urine calcium test to rule out familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia. Guidelines recommend imaging such as a DEXA scan to assess bone density at multiple sites, a plain film of the spine for vertebral fractures, and a urine calcium test. Potential surgical candidates should address indicators like renal involvement, age, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and cardiovascular risks.
Patients Requiring Surgery
Patients requiring surgery for primary hyperparathyroidism exhibit symptoms like kidney stones, fractures, and osteoporosis. Surgical criteria also consider significant neuropsychiatric or cardiovascular issues, along with elevated calcium levels, urinary calcium levels, and age. Surgical evaluation focuses on the severity of the condition and the patient's ability to benefit from surgery or opt for observation.
Patient Considerations
In the decision-making process for surgery, patient age, symptoms, bone density, and adherence to follow-up surveillance are vital factors. Patients not meeting strict surgical criteria may choose observation, especially if asymptomatic, with a focus on yearly monitoring for changes. Individual patient preferences, age, and overall health influence the decision for surgery or conservative management.
Challenges and Considerations
Challenges in managing primary hyperparathyroidism include balancing surgical recommendations with patient preferences, age, and comorbidities. Personalized treatment decisions, early intervention for potential complications, and regular monitoring play a crucial role in determining the best course of action for each patient with the condition.
Identification and Diagnosis of Parathyroid Carcinoma
Parathyroid carcinoma is suspected in patients with extremely high calcium levels, around 16 or 17, often leading to hospitalization for hypercalcemia crisis. Patients with parathyroid carcinoma display significantly elevated parathyroid hormone levels, typically ranging from the 70s to 200s. The diagnosis of parathyroid carcinoma is often made intraoperatively based on local tissue invasion, particularly in the thyroid area. Surgeons utilize various imaging modalities like 4D CT scans or nuclear medicine scans to aid in identifying and confirming the presence of parathyroid carcinoma.
Postoperative Monitoring and Management of Hypocalcemia
After parathyroid surgery, patients are commonly discharged on the same day with minimal discomfort due to small incisions. Hypocalcemia is a major concern post-surgery and typically occurs within 48 hours after the procedure. Patients are advised to take calcium and vitamin D supplements with a weaning regimen over approximately 15 days to prevent or manage hypocalcemia symptoms like perioral and digital paresthesias. The monitoring of hypocalcemia and adequate patient education on recognizing symptoms and taking appropriate actions are crucial for successful postoperative care.
Don’t just sit on that borderline calcium! Learn how to approach hypercalcemia and work up primary hyperparathyroidism. In this episode, we learn who goes to surgery, how to work them up, and some variants of typical primary hyperparathyroidism. We’re joined by Dr. Lindsay Kuo @lindsaykuo (Temple University Hospital)