Parathyroid adenoma
Definition
A parathyroid adenoma is a noncancerous (benign) tumor of the parathyroid glands, which are located in the neck.
Causes
The parathyroid glands in the neck help control calcium use and removal by the body. They do this by producing parathyroid hormone, or PTH. PTH helps control calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D levels within the blood and bone.
Parathyroid adenomas can be due to a genetic problem. The most common cause of parathyroid adenoma is hyperparathyroidism, which leads to increased blood calcium levels.
Women over 60 have the highest risk for developing this condition. Radiation to your head or neck also increase your risk.
Symptoms
Many people have no symptoms. The condition is often discovered accidentally when blood tests are done for another medical reason.
Symptoms that may occur include the following:
- Bone fractures
- Confusion
- Constipation
- Kidney stones
- Lethargy
- Muscle pain
- Nausea
Exams and Tests
Blood tests are done to check the levels of parathyroid hormone, calcium, phosphorus, chloride, and bicarbonate.
A 24-urine test is done to check for increased calcium in the urine.
Other tests include:
- Bone density exam
- Kidney x-rays (may show kidney stones)
- MRI or sestamibi neck scan (may show swelling of the parathyroid glands)
- Neck ultrasound
- Kidney ultrasound or CT (may show kidney stones)
Treatment
Surgery is the most common treatment. However, if you have mild hyperparathyroidism, you may just need regular check ups with your doctor.
Estrogen replacement can help relieve symptoms and prevent bone loss in postmenopausal women.
Outlook (Prognosis)
The outlook is generally good.
Possible Complications
Osteoporosis and the increased risk for bone fractures is the most common concern.
Other complications are less common, but may include:
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of this condition.
References
Wysolmerski JJ. Insogna KL. The Parathyroid Glands, Hypercalcemia, and Hypocalcemia. In: Kronenberg HM, Schlomo M, Polansky KS, Larsen PR, eds. Williams Textbook of Endocrinology. 11th ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2008: chap. 266.
Bringhurst FR, Demay MB, Kronenberg HM. Disorders of Mineral Metabolism. In: Kronenberg HM, Schlomo M, Polansky KS, Larsen PR, eds. Williams Textbook of Endocrinology. 11th ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2008: chap. 27.
Reviewed By: Ari S. Eckman, MD, Chief, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Trinitas Regional Medical Center, Elizabeth, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website, and its associated websites, is provided as a benefit to the local community, and the Internet community in general; it does not constitute medical advice. We try to provide quality information, but we make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to this website and its associated sites. As medical advice must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each patient and healthcare is constantly changing, nothing provided herein should be used as a substitute for the advice of a competent physician. Furthermore, in providing this service, Adventist HealthCare does not condone or support all of the content covered in this site. As an Adventist health care organization, Adventist HealthCare acts in accordance with the ethical and religious directives for Adventist health care services.
Adventist HealthCare · 301-315-3030 · 1801 Research BLVD, Suite 400, Rockville, MD 20850
Get Care
Health & Wellness
Patient Information
Website Information
Ways of Giving
