BMJ Best Practice Podcast

Primary hyperparathyroidism

12 snips
Sep 11, 2023
Primary hyperparathyroidism is a common disorder affecting both men and women. The podcast discusses the diagnosis and management of the condition, including surgery and medication. It also covers the indications for surgery, the use of bisphosphonates, and the challenges in diagnosing symptoms and potential complications. The causes and management of primary hyperparathyroidism, as well as addressing patient questions, are also explored.
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INSIGHT

What Primary Hyperparathyroidism Is

  • Primary hyperparathyroidism is caused by a benign parathyroid tumour that secretes excess parathyroid hormone leading to hypercalcemia.
  • Diagnosis requires elevated serum-adjusted calcium with an elevated or inappropriately normal parathyroid hormone.
ADVICE

Always Test Calcium And PTH

  • Check serum-adjusted calcium and parathyroid hormone to diagnose primary hyperparathyroidism.
  • Remember normal physiology should suppress PTH when calcium is high, so an elevated or inappropriately normal PTH indicates disease.
INSIGHT

Many Cases Are Incidentally Found

  • Most patients today are diagnosed incidentally because serum calcium is checked more often in primary care.
  • Traditional hypercalcemia symptoms include polyuria, fatigue, bone and muscle pain, and constipation.
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