The diagnosis and management of hyperparathyroidism during pregnancy

Hyperparathyroidism during pregnancy is rare and very few cases have undergone parathyroidectomy during the course of gestation. In reviewing the literature it is apparent that surgery during the second trimester should be the treatment of choice. The complication rate of untreated cases may reach 80% and include spontaneous abortion, fetal death and neonatal tetany. The paper is illustrated with appropriate cases.