[Hyperparathyroidism in carcinoma of the parathyroids (author's transl)]

Parathyroid carcinoma as the cause of primary hyperparathyroidism was found in 3 out of 102 patients. The diagnosis was based on the findings of markedly increased serum calcium and parathormone values, definite infiltration of the tumour into the surrounding tissue, mitoses, wide connective tissue septa in the tumour as well as rupture of the capsule and penetration of vessels. The diagnosis can only be made after close cooperation between endocrinologists, surgeons and pathologists.