Hyperparathyroidism

Hyperparathyroidism: Understanding and Treating Parathyroid Overactivity

Introduction:
Hyperparathyroidism is a condition in which the parathyroid glands produce excess amounts of parathyroid hormone (PTH). This hormone regulates calcium and phosphate levels in the blood, and its excessive release can lead to various health problems. In this article, we will look at the main aspects of hyperparathyroidism, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

Causes of hyperparathyroidism:
The most common cause of hyperparathyroidism is hyperplasia of the parathyroid glands, which means an irreversible increase in their size and activity. This may be caused by genetic factors, mutations, or dysfunction of malignant tumors of the parathyroid glands. Rarer causes are parathyroid adenoma and parathyroid cancer.

Symptoms of hyperparathyroidism:
Symptoms of hyperparathyroidism can vary depending on the degree and duration of overactivity of the parathyroid glands. Some patients may have no obvious symptoms, and diagnosis may be incidental when testing for other conditions. However, more common symptoms include:

1. Osteoporosis: Excess parathyroid hormone causes calcium to be removed from bones, which can lead to poor bone density and an increased risk of fractures.
2. Blood calcium levels: Elevated calcium levels can cause feelings of fatigue, weakness, lethargy, nausea and vomiting.
3. Focal calcifications: Excess calcium can be deposited in various organs, forming stones or calcifications in the kidneys, gallbladder, or other places.
4. Mental disorders: Some patients may experience depression, low mood, irritability, or problems with concentration and memory.

Diagnostics:
To diagnose hyperparathyroidism, your doctor may do the following tests:

1. Calcium and phosphate levels in the blood: Elevated levels of calcium and decreased levels of phosphate may indicate hyperparathyroidism.
2. Measurement of parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels: An elevated PTH level confirms the diagnosis of hyperparathyroidism.
3. Instrumental studies: The doctor may order x-rays of bones, ultrasound examination of the parathyroid glands, or scintigraphy to assess their size and condition.

Treatment of hyperparathyroidism:
Treatment of hyperparathyroidism depends on its form and severity, as well as the presence of complications. In most cases, surgical removal of the parathyroid gland (parathyroidectomy) is the most effective treatment. Parathyroid hyperplasia may require removal of some or all of the parathyroid glands. In the case of a parathyroid tumor or cancer, removal of the tumor and sometimes extensive surgical resection may be required.

After surgery, patients may need calcium and vitamin D supplements to maintain normal calcium levels in the body. Regular observation by an endocrinologist and monitoring of calcium and PTH levels in the blood are also important to assess the effectiveness of treatment and prevent relapse.

Conclusion:
Hyperparathyroidism is a condition that requires attention and treatment. Timely diagnosis and selection of the optimal treatment method play an important role in improving the prognosis for patients with hyperparathyroidism. If symptoms related to calcium levels and parathyroid function occur, it is recommended to consult a doctor for further evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Hyperparathyroidism is a pathology of the parathyroid gland, characterized by an increase in the level of parathyroid hormone. This leads to disruption of phosphorus-calcium metabolism and can lead to various pathologies.

Normally, parathyroid hormone is produced by the parathyroid glands, which are located in the neck. They regulate calcium levels in the blood. If the functioning of these glands is impaired, the amount of parathyroidin increases, which leads to the development of hyperparathyroidism.

Hyperparathyroidism is more common in women. Symptoms of this disease can appear constantly or periodically, depending on the severity. These include muscle pain, cramps, disorders of the cardiovascular system, increased blood pressure, pain in the kidneys, arthralgia, diarrhea, and visual impairment. A characteristic sign of hyperparathyroidism is increased bone mineralization. In this case, bone deformations (Osteosclerosis) and bone changes (Atrophic osteosclerosis) occur. As a result, osteoporosis develops and the risk of fractures increases.

Treatment for hyperparathyroidism includes drug therapy and surgery. Drug treatment