Hyperparathyroidism

Disorders of the endocrine system can manifest in very different ways. Sometimes a person experiences increased fatigue, weakness, pain in the bones, or other changes in well-being, the cause of which is difficult to explain immediately. In some cases, during examination, kidney stones or a decrease in bone density may also be detected. Such changes are sometimes associated with the work of the parathyroid glands — small endocrine organs that regulate mineral metabolism in the body.

When these glands begin to produce an excessive amount of parathyroid hormone, a condition called hyperparathyroidism occurs. Such a disorder affects the level of calcium in the blood and may gradually affect the condition of the bones, kidneys, and nervous system. Timely diagnosis makes it possible to detect the problem at an early stage, and properly selected therapy helps control the course of the disease.

Hyperparathyroidism is an endocrine disease in which the parathyroid glands produce an excessive amount of parathyroid hormone. This hormone regulates calcium-phosphorus metabolism and plays an important role in maintaining a stable mineral balance in the body.

When the level of parathyroid hormone increases, the release of calcium from bone tissue increases, and its absorption in the intestines and reabsorption in the kidneys also intensify. As a result, the level of calcium in the blood increases. This condition is called hypercalcemia.

Excess calcium can affect the functioning of various organs and systems. In particular, calcium is actively excreted through the kidneys, which increases the risk of stone formation. At the same time, the gradual release of calcium from bone tissue can reduce its density and make the bones more fragile. An increased level of calcium also affects the nervous system and muscles, which sometimes manifests as weakness, increased fatigue, or changes in well-being.

In some cases, the disease may develop for a long time without pronounced symptoms and is detected during laboratory tests or examinations for another reason. That is why, if there is a suspicion of a disorder in the functioning of the parathyroid glands, it is important to consult a doctor in a timely manner and undergo the necessary diagnostics.

The development of hyperparathyroidism may be associated with various disorders of the functioning of the parathyroid glands or changes in mineral metabolism in the body.

The most common causes include:

• benign neoplasms of the parathyroid glands (adenomas);
• increase in the gland tissue (hyperplasia);
• chronic kidney diseases that disrupt the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus;
• vitamin D deficiency;
• impaired calcium absorption in intestinal diseases;
• hereditary endocrine syndromes.

Hyperparathyroidism may also sometimes develop after surgery on the parathyroid glands or other organs of the endocrine system. In such cases, the normal regulation of parathyroid hormone production is disrupted, which may lead to changes in the level of calcium in the blood and requires further medical observation.

Diagnosis of hyperparathyroidism begins with a doctor's consultation. The specialist evaluates the patient's complaints, clarifies the presence of concomitant diseases, previous surgeries, and other factors that may affect the functioning of the parathyroid glands.

Laboratory tests play a key role in establishing the diagnosis. Blood tests make it possible to determine the level of parathyroid hormone and assess the state of calcium-phosphorus metabolism in the body.

Usually, the doctor prescribes the determination of the following indicators:

• parathyroid hormone;
• calcium;
• phosphorus;
• vitamin D;
• creatinine to assess kidney function.

To clarify the condition of the parathyroid glands, instrumental research methods are used. Most often, ultrasound diagnostics is used, which helps to detect enlargement of the glands or the presence of neoplasms.

If hyperparathyroidism is confirmed, treatment is selected individually after evaluating the results of laboratory tests and instrumental examinations. The treatment strategy is determined by the cause of the disease, the level of parathyroid hormone, the concentration of calcium in the blood, the presence of symptoms, and the general condition of the patient.

In some cases, when the increase in parathyroid hormone levels is not accompanied by pronounced symptoms or significant changes in laboratory indicators, the doctor may recommend dynamic observation. It involves regular monitoring of calcium levels, parathyroid hormone, and the condition of bone tissue.

Drug treatment is used in situations where it is necessary to correct disorders of mineral metabolism or reduce the level of calcium in the blood. The doctor may prescribe medications that affect calcium metabolism, as well as agents to correct vitamin D deficiency. Such therapy allows stabilization of the patient’s condition and reduces the risk of complications.

If the cause of the disease is an adenoma or a significant enlargement of the parathyroid gland tissue, the main method of treatment may be surgical intervention. In such cases, parathyroidectomy is performed — an operation to remove the pathologically altered gland. Surgical treatment makes it possible to eliminate the source of excessive production of parathyroid hormone and restore normal regulation of calcium metabolism.

Patients are usually advised regular observation by a doctor and periodic monitoring of laboratory tests. This helps to evaluate the effectiveness of therapy and to adjust treatment in a timely manner.

If the elevated level of parathyroid hormone is not corrected for a long time, the disturbance of mineral metabolism may gradually affect the functioning of various organs and systems. Excess calcium in the blood changes the condition of bone tissue, puts a load on the kidneys, and may affect the functioning of the cardiovascular and nervous systems.

The following complications are possible:

• decreased bone density — due to the constant release of calcium from the bones, the risk of osteoporosis and fractures gradually increases;
• deterioration of kidney function — a prolonged elevated level of calcium may damage kidney tissue and gradually reduce the ability of the kidneys to perform their functions;
• formation of kidney stones — excess calcium is actively excreted through the kidneys, which may contribute to the development of urolithiasis and renal colic;
• disorders of the cardiovascular and nervous systems — changes in heart rhythm, increased fatigue, weakness, or decreased concentration may occur.

In severe cases, a hypercalcemic crisis may develop — a dangerous condition associated with a sharp increase in the level of calcium in the blood. It may be accompanied by pronounced weakness, nausea, impaired consciousness, and requires urgent medical care.

Early detection of the disease and properly selected therapy help significantly reduce the risk of complications.

The cost of treatment of hyperparathyroidism is determined individually and depends on the cause of the disease, the level of hormonal disorders, and the required scope of medical care. In some cases, patients only need regular observation and monitoring of laboratory indicators, while in others medication therapy or surgical treatment may be required.

You can ознакомиться with current prices for doctor consultations and other medical services here. During the consultation, the doctor will explain which examinations are needed, select the optimal treatment strategy, and provide guidance regarding the cost.

You can schedule an appointment at a convenient time by phone or use the online appointment form on the website.