Primary hyperparathyroidism in children and adolescents

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Skeletal Diseases
• Metabolic Bone Disorders

Background:

• Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is an uncommon endocrine disorder in pediatric populations.
• Increased awareness is needed for timely diagnosis and to prevent long-term complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and outcomes of PHPT in children and adolescents.
• To highlight the importance of early screening and intervention in pediatric PHPT cases.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 15 pediatric patients (<20 years) with PHPT.
• Data collected on clinical presentation, biochemical findings, imaging, histopathology, and post-operative outcomes.

Main Results:

• The study included 15 patients (3 males, 12 females) with a mean age of 17.73 years.
• Common symptoms included bone pain (86.67%), fractures (60%), and bony deformities (53.33%).
• Adenoma was the cause in all cases; hyperplasia was rare. Post-operative hungry bone syndrome occurred in 33.3%.

Conclusions:

• PHPT in this cohort was more prevalent in females and presented similarly to adults, but with more severe bone disease.
• Familial forms and multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) were not significant causes in this pediatric group.
• Early diagnosis and management are essential to mitigate severe skeletal and renal manifestations in pediatric PHPT.