Primary hyperparathyroidism, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular disease: a review

The presentation of primary hyperthyroidism (PHPT) has changed substantially in the last decade. Before the introduction of routine calcium measurement in most automated biochemistry serum analyzers, it usually was diagnosed after renal and bony lesions already were present. Nowadays, its presentation is practically asymptomatic. Nevertheless, the cardiovascular morbidity and mortality of mild to moderate forms of PHPT reportedly are increasing. Individuals who have mild to moderate forms of PHPT have an increased risk for enduring cardiovascular disease, arterial hypertension, left ventricular hypertrophy, myocardial and valvular calcifications, altered vascular reactivity, and cardiac conduction. Finally, they also reveal alterations in carbohydrate metabolism, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and body composition.