General Information About Parathyroid Gland Diseases
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
They are 4 lentil-sized glands located in our neck, attached to the back of the thyroid gland. Their job is to regulate the calcium level in the blood.
It occurs when one of the glands enlarges due to a benign tumor (adenoma) and continuously secretes hormone (PTH), forcefully drawing calcium from the bones into the blood and depleting the bones.
Due to the overactivity of the glands, too much calcium enters the blood. As the kidneys filter this excess calcium, they become blocked, leading to the frequent formation of recurrent hard calcium kidney stones.
It is the inability to produce the hormone, generally resulting from the accidental removal or damage of the glands during goiter/thyroid surgeries. Calcium levels in the blood drop to dangerous levels.
Symptoms include numbness and tingling around the lips, hands, and feet, involuntary locking of the hands (spasms/tetany), and in advanced cases, muscle spasms that can cause shortness of breath.
Blood levels of Calcium, Phosphorus, and PTH hormone are measured. If overactive, the problematic gland is located via neck ultrasound or scintigraphy and surgically removed. If underactive, lifelong Vitamin D and calcium pills are prescribed.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
