A commonly overlooked motor neuron disease mimicker.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Endocrinology
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Motor neuron disease (MND) is a fatal neurodegenerative condition.
• Identifying treatable mimics of MND is crucial for patient outcomes.
• Hypercalcemia can present with neurological symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of primary hyperparathyroidism misdiagnosed as MND.
• To emphasize the importance of considering treatable mimics in neurological diagnoses.
• To highlight the role of electrolyte screening in neurological workups.

Main Methods:

• Case report presentation.
• Review of patient's clinical presentation and diagnostic workup.
• Surgical intervention for primary hyperparathyroidism.

Main Results:

• A patient with hypercalcemia due to primary hyperparathyroidism initially presented with symptoms mimicking MND.
• Parathyroid surgery successfully resolved the patient's neurological symptoms.
• This case demonstrates a treatable condition masquerading as MND.

Conclusions:

• Electrolyte imbalances, particularly hypercalcemia, can present as neurological disorders, including symptoms similar to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
• Comprehensive diagnostic workup for neurological patients should include screening for common electrolyte abnormalities.
• Avoid diagnosing MND without ruling out treatable differential diagnoses like hypercalcemia.