Hyperparathyroidism Disease Summary

Hyperparathyroidism is caused by excessive parathyroid hormone (PTH) production, which may be due to autonomous overproduction as seen in primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) or in response to low serum calcium (hypocalcemia) as seen in secondary hyperparathyroidism, as stated in the Introduction section.  

Primary hyperparathyroidism is the third most common endocrine disorder after diabetes mellitus and thyroid disorders. A detailed discussion about the prevalence of primary hyperparathyroidism is in the Epidemiology section. 

The Pathophysiology section discusses the mechanism involved in primary hyperparathyroidism.  

The Etiology section explains the causes of hyperparathyroidism based on the classification. 

The Classification section explains the different classifications of hyperparathyroidism which include primary, secondary, and tertiary hyperparathyroidism. 

Most of the patients with hyperparathyroidism are asymptomatic but the Clinical Presentation section describes the signs and symptoms of primary hyperparathyroidism due to elevated levels of parathyroid hormone and serum calcium.

The History and Physical Examination sections further discuss evaluation to be done in patients presenting with hyperparathyroidism. 

Discussion on laboratory tests, bone turnover markers, and genetic testing is in the Laboratory Tests and Ancillaries section.   

The Imaging section enumerates the importance of imaging for the localization of tumor/adenoma and for the identification of patients who are candidates for surgery or with disease recurrence.  

Other diseases and factors that should be ruled out in the diagnosis of hyperparathyroidism are listed in the Differential Diagnosis section. 

General therapy principles and management of hyperparathyroidism are in the Principles of Therapy section. 

The Pharmacological Therapy section discusses in detail therapy options in the treatment of hyperparathyroidism.  

Surgery is a definitive treatment for patients with hyperparathyroidism. Indications, contraindications, pre- and postoperative management, and surgical techniques and adjuncts are discussed in the Surgery section. 

The Prevention section explains the recommended preventive measures for patients with hyperparathyroidism. 

The Monitoring section discusses follow-up recommendations in patients with hyperparathyroidism. 

Complications of hypercalcemia in patients with hyperparathyroidism are listed and discussed in the Complications section.