Parathyroid cancer (patient information)
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Parathyroid cancer |
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Parathyroid cancer On the Web |
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Risk calculators and risk factors for Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 |
For the WikiDoc page for this topic, click here.
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Ammu Susheela, M.D. [2]
Overview
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) type II is a disease passed down through families, in which one or more of the endocrine glands are overactive or form a tumor. Endocrine glands most commonly involved include adrenal gland, parathyroid gland and thyroid gland.
What are the symptoms of parathyroid cancer?
Symptoms of parathyroid cancer are mainly caused by a high level of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia), and may affect different parts of the body. They include:
Bone pain Constipation Fatigue Fractures Frequent thirst Frequent urination Kidney stones Muscle weakness Nausea Poor appetite Vomiting
What causes parathyroid cancer?
- The cause of parathyroid cancer has not been identified.
Who is at highest risk?
- Positive family history of the following:
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1
- Hyperparathyroidism–jaw tumour syndrome
- Familial isolated hyperparathyroidism
Diagnosis
- The following tests may be used to diagnose parathyroid cancer
- Blood calcium
- Blood PTH
When to seek urgent medical care?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Thyroid adenoma
Treatment options
- Treatment of parathyroid cancer includes:
- Intravenous (IV) fluids
- Diuretics
- Antiresorptive agents such as biphosphonates, gallium, or mithramycin
- Calcimimetic agents that directly block secretion of the parathyroid hormone from the glands
- Gallium nitrate is used to reduce the calcium levels.
- Calcitonin is used to control the calcium levels.
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
Where to find medical care for parathyroid cancer?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1
Prevention
- Screening people with family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 is recommended.
What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
- Prognosis of the parathyroid cancer depends on the stage at which it is diagnosed. Early diagnosis and treatment is associated with better prognosis.
Possible complications
- Metastasis
- Osteoporosis
- Kidney stones
- Fractures
- Hypoparathyroidism from parathyroidectomy