A Rare Case of Hypercalcemia from Mediastinal Ectopic Hyperparathyroidism

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Surgical Pathology
• Thoracic Surgery

Background:

• Primary hyperparathyroidism, often caused by parathyroid adenomas, is a common cause of hypercalcemia.
• Ectopic parathyroidism involves hyperfunctioning parathyroid tissue outside normal anatomical sites.
• Mediastinal parathyroid adenomas are rare and can present diagnostic and surgical challenges.

Observation:

• A patient presented with hypercalcemia attributed to an ectopic parathyroid adenoma in the mediastinum.
• The adenoma's unique location between the left atrium and pulmonary artery complicated diagnosis and surgical access.
• Delayed diagnosis led to further complications, necessitating urgent surgical intervention.

Findings:

• Surgical removal of the mediastinal ectopic parathyroid adenoma was performed.
• The patient experienced significant improvement in hypercalcemia symptoms post-surgery.
• This case underscores the importance of considering ectopic parathyroidism in unexplained hypercalcemia.

Implications:

• Highlights the diagnostic difficulties and therapeutic challenges associated with ectopic parathyroid adenomas.
• Emphasizes the need for advanced imaging and surgical techniques for rare ectopic gland locations.
• Provides a valuable clinical case for discussion on managing hypercalcemia from unusual parathyroid sources.