Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is a condition in which one (or more) of your parathyroid glands produces too much parathyroid hormone and releases it in the bloodstream, often leading to high calcium levels. Show PHPT is one of the most common hormonal disorders. In the United States, about 100,000 people develop PHPT each year. The prevalence is about one to seven cases per 1,000 adults. It is more common in the African-American population. Women are more likely than men to develop PHPT, and the risk increases with age. Endocrine ConnectionThe parathyroid glands are four pea-sized glands in the neck that produce parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH keeps calcium at a normal level in the blood, so it can do its job in the body. For instance, calcium helps nerves work properly and maintains a healthy blood pressure. When blood calcium gets low, PTH brings it back to normal by moving calcium from the bones, kidneys, and intestines into the blood. Too much PTH causes more calcium to be released from the bones and raises levels of calcium in the blood and urine above normal. Over time, this can result in weak bones that break easily, kidney stones (small clumps of calcium), and a decline in kidney function. The most common cause of primary hyperparathyroidism is a single noncancerous (benign) growth called an adenoma on one of the parathyroid glands. An adenoma causes the gland to become overactive and make more PTH. Less often, all four parathyroid glands become enlarged and produce too much PTH. Sometimes PHPT results from radiation to the neck area or the use of certain medications (thiazide diuretics or lithium). In a small number of cases, people inherit a gene that leads to PHPT. Rarely, parathyroid cancer causes PHPT. Health care providers most often diagnose PHPT with blood tests that detect high calcium and PTH levels. When PHPT is found, further tests may be done to check for complications, including:
It has been hypothesized that taking low (not enough) calcium for a long time may increase the risk of developing PHPT by causing chronic stimulation of the parathyroid gland. Depending your gender and age, there are different recommendations about how much calcium you should be getting daily. For most adults, at least 1,000 mg of calcium daily is recommended. PHPT can also cause complications, such as:
Signs and symptoms of PHPT include: Mild Severe
Some people have no symptoms (what you feel) at all. While most people with benign PHPT do not have severe symptoms, those with parathyroid cancer almost always do. Women are more likely than men to develop primary hyperparathyroidism, and the risk increases with age. Sometimes, radiation to the neck region (for example, radiation given as part of treatment for cancers) can increase the risk of developing this condition as well. Taking low calcium for a long time may also increase the risk of developing PHPT Treatment and TherapiesThe doctor chooses a treatment based on a patient’s age, test results, and which signs or symptoms are present. SurgerySurgical removal of adenomas or enlarged parathyroid glands is recommended for all patients under the age of 50, whether or not they have symptoms. This is because young people tend to develop more complications over time if they are untreated.
To locate the exact site of excess PTH production and to plan surgery, the doctor may order one or more of the following imaging tests: MedicationsFor some patients without signs or symptoms, doctors recommend regular checkups instead of surgery. Tests should include blood calcium levels, blood tests to check kidney function, and checks of bone density. A doctor may also prescribe medicines, including: What is the most common finding in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism?In primary hyperparathyroidism, one or more of the parathyroid glands is overactive. As a result, the gland makes too much parathyroid hormone (PTH). Too much PTH causes calcium levels in your blood to rise too high, which can lead to health problems such as bone thinning and kidney stones.
Who is most susceptible to hyperparathyroidism?Hyperparathyroidism mainly occurs in patients over 60 but can also develop in younger adults. Risk factors include: Gender: Women are more likely to get the condition than men. Radiation Therapy: Treatment for other neck cancers can affect the parathyroid glands.
What is the difference between hyperparathyroidism and primary hyperparathyroidism?In primary hyperparathyroidism, your parathyroid glands make too much PTH, which causes the level of calcium in your blood to rise. In secondary hyperparathyroidism, the overactivity of the parathyroid glands occurs in response to another condition that's causing calcium loss.
What foods trigger hyperparathyroidism?Avoid refined foods, such as white breads, pastas, and sugar. Use healthy cooking oils, such as olive oil or coconut oil. Reduce or eliminate trans-fatty acids, found in commercially-baked goods, such as cookies, crackers, cakes, and donuts, French fries, onion rings, processed foods, and margarine.
|
