[Primary hyperparathyroidism]

Primary hyperparathyroidism is a common endocrine disease. Since introduction of automated routine measurement of serum calcium the detection of primary hyperparathyroidism has increased significantly. The classical symptoms such as kidney stones, gastrointestinal and bone manifestation are rarely seen nowadays. For this reason, an elevated parathyroid hormone level in a patient with hypercalcemia confirms primary hyperparathyroidism in 95 % of cases. Currently 80 % of these patients are asymptomatic, and therefore criteria for diagnosis and treatment have been discussed on several consensus conferences. After biochemical confirmation has been obtained further diagnostic test aim at locating the tumor should be by ultrasound and 99m TC-sestamibi scintigraphy. The improved diagnostic work-up had led to a better surgical approach with minimally invasive and endoscopic techniques. In addition, quick intraoperative parathyroid hormone measurements confirm immediately the success of surgical treatment. Non-surgical treatment in asymptomatic and elderly patients may be justified. Bisphosphonates are the first choice for medical treatment in patients with bone manifestation and cinacalcet may be given to patients to lower calcium and parathyroid hormone levels.