Primary hyperparathyroidism in young patients is associated with metabolic disorders: a prospective comparative study

Components of metabolic syndrome can be observed in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT). The link between these disorders remains unclear due to the lack of relevant experimental models and the heterogeneity of examined groups. The effect of surgery on metabolic abnormalities is also controversial. We conducted a comprehensive assessment of metabolic parameters in young patients with PHPT.

One-center prospective comparative study was carried out. The participants underwent a complex biochemical and hormonal examination, a hyperinsulinemic euglycemic and hyperglycemic clamps, a bioelectrical impedance analysis of the body composition before and 13 months after parathyroidectomy compared to sex-, age- and body mass index matched healthy volunteers.

45.8% of patients (n = 24) had excessive visceral fat. Insulin resistance was detected in 54.2% of cases. PHPT patients had higher serum triglycerides, lower M-value and higher C-peptide and insulin levels in both phases of insulin secretion compared to the control group (p < 0.05 for all parameters). There were tendencies to decreased fasting glucose (p = 0.031), uric acid (p = 0.044) and insulin levels of the second secretion phase (p = 0.039) after surgery, but no statistically significant changes of lipid profile and M-value as well as body composition were revealed. We obtained negative correlations between percent body fat and osteocalcin and magnesium levels in patients before surgery.

PHPT is associated with insulin resistance that is the main risk factor of serious metabolic disorders. Surgery may potentially improve carbohydrate and purine metabolism.