[Problem of adaptive hyperparathyroidism in chronic renal failure]

It is reported on a case of adaptive hyperparathyroidism (HPT) with diffuse hyperplasia of the adrenal glands including formation of an adenoma, in which during the first 5 weeks of the dialytic therapy massive pulmonary, vascular and periarticular calcifications developed. The previously existing untreated HPT and factors specific for dialysis (composition of the dialysate, heparin therapy) are made responsible for this course of the disease. Within one year the parathyroidectomy led to the regression of the calcifications. Prophylactic and therapeutic possibilities in the adaptive HPT are shown.