Persistent hyperparathyroidism in long-term kidney transplantation: time to consider a less aggressive approach

Persistent hyperparathyroidism affects 50% of long-term kidney transplants with preserved allograft function. Timing, options and the optimal target for treatment remain unclear. Clinical practice guidelines recommend the same therapeutic approach as patients with chronic kidney disease.

Mild to moderate elevation of parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels in long-term kidney transplants may not be associated with bone loss and fracture. Recent findings on bone biopsy revealed the lack of association between hypercalcaemic hyperparathyroidism with pathology of high bone turnover. Elevated PTH levels may be required to maintain normal bone volume. Nevertheless, several large observational studies have revealed the association between hypercalcemia and the elevation of PTH levels with unfavourable allograft and patient outcomes. Both calcimimetics and parathyroidectomy are effective in lowering serum calcium and PTH. A recent meta-analysis suggested parathyroidectomy may be performed safely after kidney transplantation without deterioration of allograft function.

Treatment of persistent hyperparathyroidism is warranted in kidney transplants with hypercalcemia and markedly elevated PTH levels. A less aggressive approach should be applied to those with mild to moderate elevation. Whether treatments improve outcomes remain to be elucidated.