Hyperparathyroidism

Definition

Hyperparathyroidism is a condition characterized by the overproduction of parathyroid hormone (PTH) by the parathyroid glands, leading to elevated levels of calcium in the blood. This condition can disrupt various biochemical pathways and has significant clinical implications, affecting multiple organ systems and contributing to various disorders such as kidney stones, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular issues.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hyperparathyroidism can be classified into primary, secondary, and tertiary forms, with primary being the most common and usually linked to a benign tumor.
2. Elevated calcium levels from hyperparathyroidism can lead to symptoms like fatigue, depression, and abdominal pain due to the effects on various organ systems.
3. Diagnosis typically involves measuring serum calcium and PTH levels; a high serum calcium level with elevated PTH indicates primary hyperparathyroidism.
4. Long-term hyperparathyroidism can result in bone demineralization and an increased risk for fractures due to the mobilization of calcium from bones.
5. Management may include surgical removal of overactive parathyroid tissue or medical therapy to manage symptoms and reduce complications.

Review Questions

• How does hyperparathyroidism affect calcium metabolism in the body?
  • Hyperparathyroidism leads to increased levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH), which causes bones to release more calcium into the bloodstream. This results in elevated serum calcium levels, which can disrupt normal metabolic processes. The increased calcium levels can also lead to complications such as kidney stones and impaired renal function due to excessive calcium filtration.
• Discuss the differences between primary and secondary hyperparathyroidism in terms of causes and clinical implications.
  • Primary hyperparathyroidism is usually caused by a benign tumor on one of the parathyroid glands that leads to excessive PTH production. In contrast, secondary hyperparathyroidism often arises as a compensatory response to low serum calcium levels due to conditions like chronic kidney disease. Clinically, primary hyperparathyroidism results in high calcium levels and associated symptoms like bone pain or kidney stones, while secondary hyperparathyroidism focuses on correcting underlying conditions to normalize calcium levels.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of untreated hyperparathyroidism on overall health and organ systems.
  • Untreated hyperparathyroidism can lead to significant long-term health issues, including osteoporosis due to chronic bone demineralization, resulting in an increased risk of fractures. Elevated calcium levels can also impact cardiovascular health by contributing to vascular calcification and hypertension. Additionally, patients may experience renal complications such as nephrolithiasis (kidney stones) or impaired kidney function due to persistent high calcium levels affecting renal structures. Overall, these complications highlight the importance of early diagnosis and management to prevent severe outcomes.

Related terms

Parathyroid Hormone (PTH): A hormone produced by the parathyroid glands that regulates calcium levels in the blood by promoting the release of calcium from bones, increasing intestinal absorption of calcium, and enhancing renal tubular reabsorption of calcium.

Hypoparathyroidism: A condition caused by insufficient production of parathyroid hormone, leading to low levels of calcium in the blood, which can result in muscle cramps, seizures, and other symptoms.

Primary Hyperparathyroidism: The most common form of hyperparathyroidism, usually caused by a benign tumor on a parathyroid gland, leading to increased secretion of PTH and resulting in hypercalcemia.