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Ency. home > Disease > P > Primary hyperparathyroidism

Primary hyperparathyroidism    See images

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Parathyroid-related hypercalcemia

Definition:

Primary hyperparathyroidism results in increased activity of the parathyroid gland with excessive production of parathyroid hormone, caused by enlargement of one or more of the glands.

Causes and Risks

The parathyroid glands are located at the front and base of the neck at the 4 corners of the thyroid gland. The glands produce parathyroid hormone, which regulates calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium balance within the blood and normal bone mineralization.

In primary hyperparathyroidism, increased secretion of parathyroid hormone occurs because of enlargement of 1 or more of the glands, or because of parathyroid adenoma. The effects of increased calcium are seen in several body systems including the skeletal, gastrointestinal, renal, muscular, and central nervous system.

The disease is most common in women over 60. Radiation to the head and neck is a risk factor.

In children, hyperparathyroidism tends to be caused by hyperplasia (increased number of cells) of all of the parathyroid glands. Hyperparathyroidism in childhood is usually familial (it occurs in families).

Rarely, the disease is caused by parathyroid carcinoma.

Ency. home > Disease > P > Primary hyperparathyroidism

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