Different treatment strategies in primary hyperparathyroidism during pregnancy

Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) in pregnancy is rare enough and can be unrecognized because of nonspecific symptoms in most cases, but life-threatening complications for mother, fetus and neonate also occurs. PHPT requires frequent monitoring of the mother and fetus by a multidisciplinary team. Diagnostics and treatment approaches are limited and require individual risk-benefit assessment.

In this paper we describe 3 cases of PHPT in pregnant women with different managing approaches (surveillance, drug therapy and surgical treatment) and successful outcomes. Additionally, the most actual literature data on this problem is reviewed.

The management of PHPT in pregnancy should be based on the clinical features, severity of hypercalcemia, gestational age and patient's preference. In the first case a conservative approach with low-calcium diet and oral hydration resulted in mother's reduced serum calcium level before delivery. The second patient had severe hypercalcemia and absolute indications for surgery that was successfully performed at 25 week of gestation. The third woman received cinacalcet because of severe hypercalcemia and potential perioperative risks in the third trimester with an improvement in well-being.

Nowadays parathyroidectomy is the best choice for patients with symptomatic PHPT and severe hypercalcemia. This intervention should be carried out preferably in the second trimester to avoid maternal and fetal complications. Mild forms of the disease can require just a conservative management. The drug treatment of PHPT during pregnancy is still controversial.