Hyperparathyroidism

Primary hyperparathyroidism can be caused by a solitary parathyroid adenoma and sometimes by hyperplastic parathyroid glands, multiple adenomas, or carcinoma. In the majority of patients, the diagnosis is made tentatively by chemistry profiles that show elevated serum calcium. It is confirmed by repeated serum calcium values and PTH determination. The parathyroid abnormality, if an adenoma, can usually be localized preoperatively by thallium-technetium scan, ultrasound, or computed tomography. In the case of persistent disease with hypercalcemia, an angiogram with selective venous sampling for PTH is helpful. At exploration, both sides of the neck may need exploration. A unilateral procedure may be sufficient, if the preoperative localization tests are confirmatory and if biopsy of another "normal" gland shows normal histologic findings. During the postoperative period, suction drains will lessen the likelihood of hematoma formation and serum calcium levels are monitored for the first 3 to 5 days. Symptomatic patients with low calcium levels receive intravenous and oral calcium supplements until values are brought to the low-normal range. Supplements are tapered as the calcium in the serum rises. The majority of patients who undergo parathyroid surgery will benefit both symptomatically and metabolically.