Primary hyperparathyroidism due to parathyroid carcinoma

Most cases of primary hyperparathyroidism are due to either a parathyroid adenoma or to parathyroid hyperplasia. Parathyroid carcinoma is a very rare cause of hyperparathyroidism. Although the diagnosis of parathyroid carcinoma is usually established based on pathological criteria of vascular and capsular invasion, some clinical and biochemical features differentiate it from benign forms of hyperparathyroidism. We report the case of a middle-aged woman with a long standing history of nephrolithiasis, who presented with a palpable neck mass, weight loss, severe hypercalcemia and hypophosphatemia, as well as very high serum levels of intact parathyroid hormone. Surgical neck exploration revealed a large tumor that invaded trachea, esophagus, reccurrent laryngeal nerve, right apical pleura and right carotid artery. Pathological examination confirmed the invasive nature of the tumor. Along with the case report, we review the literature and discuss the diagnostic and therapeutic options of this rare condition.