Recent advances in understanding and managing hypoparathyroidism

Hypoparathyroidism is a rare endocrine disorder which leads to hypocalcemia, hypercalciuria, and hyperphosphatemia. Complications include nephrocalcinosis with renal dysfunction, reduced quality of life, and abnormal skeletal properties. Conventional therapy with calcium and vitamin D analogs addresses hypocalcemia but has important limitations. Parathyroid hormone (PTH) therapy is a fundamental advance, although the effects of PTH on long-term complications require additional testing. Continuous PTH therapy is likely to be particularly advantageous for addressing renal, quality of life, and skeletal complications. Overall, much progress has been made, yet more information is needed to improve our understanding and management of hypoparathyroidism.