Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 26, 2026
03:57
Generation of Hypoparathyroid Rats via Carbon-Nanoparticle-Assisted Parathyroidectomy
Published on: July 14, 2023
Long-term lithium therapy leading to hyperparathyroidism: a case report
Mian M Rizwan1, Nancy D Perrier
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA. mmrizwan1@hotmail.com
Perspectives in Psychiatric Care
|January 22, 2009
Summary
Long-term lithium therapy can cause hypercalcemia, a rare but serious condition affecting parathyroid glands. Regular monitoring of serum calcium levels is crucial for managing this side effect in patients.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Lithium is a common mood stabilizer used in treating bipolar disorder.
- Chronic lithium use is associated with various endocrine and metabolic side effects.
- Serum calcium and parathyroid gland function are potential targets of lithium toxicity.
Observation:
- This review examines the impact of lithium on serum calcium and parathyroid glands.
- A case of recurrent hypercalcemia in a lithium-treated patient is presented.
- The pathogenesis and management strategies for lithium-induced hypercalcemia are discussed.
Findings:
- Chronic lithium therapy can lead to hypercalcemia in up to 15% of patients.
- Primary hyperparathyroidism is a rare but significant complication of long-term lithium treatment.
- Lithium's effect on parathyroid glands contributes to elevated serum calcium levels.
Implications:
- Routine monitoring of serum calcium levels is recommended for patients on long-term lithium therapy.
- Careful patient selection and vigilant follow-up are essential to minimize risks.
- Early detection and management of hypercalcemia can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Hyperthyroidism I: Introduction
Hyperthyroidism is a type of thyrotoxicosis characterized by the thyroid gland's overproduction of the thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). This hormone excess increases the basal metabolic rate and enhances sensitivity to catecholamines.DiagnosisDiagnosis is based on clinical features and biochemical testing. It typically shows suppressed thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels below 0.4 mIU/L, with elevated free T3 and/or T4. Additional tests, including thyroid...
01:27Hyperthyroidism II: Pathophysiology
Hyperthyroidism is a hypermetabolic state caused by elevated levels of thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). It results from dysregulation at the thyroid, pituitary, or immune system level and affects multiple organ systems.PathophysiologyThe most common cause of hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder in which antibodies, specifically thyroid-stimulating antibodies (TSAb), a subtype of TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb), bind to and activate TSH receptors...
01:24Graves Disease II: Pathophysiology
Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the production of thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI) that activate TSH receptors, leading to excessive synthesis and release of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and resulting in hyperthyroidism.Among all causes of hyperthyroidism, Graves’ disease is the most common and can happen at any age, though it is more frequent in women. It produces a hypermetabolic state with features such as weight loss, tachycardia, tremor, and heat...
00:59The Parathyroid Glands
The two pairs of parathyroid glands embedded within the posterior surface of the thyroid gland are restricted by a dense capsule around them. These glands comprise two distinct cell populations—parathyroid oxyphil and parathyroid principal cells- pivotal in calcium homeostasis.
Oxyphil cells, whose functions remain elusive, emerge during late puberty, adding a layer of complexity to the parathyroid gland's intricacies. In contrast, principal parathyroid cells undertake a vital role by producing...
Oxyphil cells, whose functions remain elusive, emerge during late puberty, adding a layer of complexity to the parathyroid gland's intricacies. In contrast, principal parathyroid cells undertake a vital role by producing...
01:17Introduction to Language of Pathophysiology ll
This lesson explores key terms that describe how diseases progress, their outcomes, and their distribution in populations.Diagnostic tests identify diseases and monitor treatment. These include blood and urine tests, biopsies, imaging (X-ray, MRI), and detection of infectious agents.Remission is a reduction or disappearance of symptoms.Exacerbation refers to the worsening of symptoms, such as increased wheezing during an asthma attack.A precipitating factor triggers an acute episode, while a...
01:23Hypothyroidism II: Pathophysiology
Hypothyroidism is a disorder characterized by insufficient production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, energy balance, and multiple organ systems.TypesHypothyroidism is classified based on the level of dysfunction. Primary hypothyroidism results from intrinsic thyroid gland dysfunction, causing reduced hormone production despite normal or increased stimulation. Secondary hypothyroidism arises from inadequate thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) secretion by the pituitary. Tertiary...