Hyperparathyroidism and pregnancy: case report and review

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Obstetrics

Background:

• Primary hyperparathyroidism in pregnancy presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
• Management strategies vary based on symptom severity and gestational stage.

Observation:

• Symptomatic hyperparathyroidism in pregnancy warrants parathyroidectomy in the second trimester.
• Medical management is considered for late third-trimester diagnoses unless complications arise.
• Asymptomatic cases, by consensus, should also be treated surgically, preferably in the second trimester.

Findings:

• Pregnancy with hyperparathyroidism is considered high-risk, necessitating close maternal and neonatal monitoring.
• Neonates require monitoring for hypocalcemia and tetany.
• Mothers treated medically require postpartum surveillance for hyperparathyroid crisis.

Implications:

• Early diagnosis of hyperparathyroidism in pregnancy is crucial for optimal management.
• Clinical suspicion should be raised by specific symptoms, laboratory values, and obstetric history.
• Prompt diagnosis and management minimize risks to both mother and child.