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Solitary parathyroid adenoma: a rare cause of primary hyperparathyroidism in children
Frederic Venail1, Richard Nicollas, Denis Morin
1Pediatric ENT Department, University Hospital Guide de Chauliac, Montpellier, France.
Insights
Solitary parathyroid adenoma, a rare cause of primary hyperparathyroidism in children, can present with varied symptoms. Early diagnosis and surgical removal of the adenoma are crucial for normalizing calcium levels and preventing complications.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Surgical Endocrinology
Background:
- Primary hyperparathyroidism in children is uncommon.
- Solitary parathyroid adenoma is a rare etiology.
Observation:
- Four pediatric cases (ages 7-14) presented with nonspecific symptoms including growth retardation, glomerulonephritis, pathological fracture, and mood swings.
- Diagnosis involved clinical assessment, imaging, and biochemical analysis.
- Delayed diagnosis was noted in all reported cases.
Findings:
- Surgical excision of the solitary parathyroid adenoma was performed.
- Adenoma resection successfully normalized serum calcium levels in all patients.
Implications:
- Systematic serum calcium level screening is recommended for children with nonspecific symptoms.
- Timely diagnosis and treatment of parathyroid adenoma can prevent long-term complications in pediatric patients.
Abstract:
Solitary parathyroid adenoma is a rare cause of primary hyperparathyroidism in children. We report the cases of four children, aged 7 to 14 years old, who presented with a variety of symptoms (growth retardation, glomerulonephritis, pathological fracture, mood swings). Diagnosis was based on clinical examination, imaging, and biochemical analysis. Treatment consisted of surgical excision of the adenoma. As diagnosis was delayed in all four patients, we recommend systematically checking serum calcium levels in children with certain nonspecific symptoms. Adenoma resection usually restores normal serum calcium levels and, hence, avoids further complications.
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