Parathyroid Adenoma - From Surgical to Biochemical Cure

Abstract

Parathyroid glands, minute endocrine glands, located in posterior aspect of thyroid glands secrete parathormone which plays an important role in maintaining calcium homeostasis in the body. The superior and inferior parathyroid glands originate from the 4th and 3rd branchial pouches respectively and migrate to occupy their normal positions in relation to the thyroid gland.1 Hyperparathyroidism is defined as hyper functioning of parathyroid gland and can be primary, secondary or tertiary. Primary hyperparathyroidism is due to parathyroid gland proliferative disorders which include parathyroid adenoma, parathyroid hyperplasia, parathyroid carcinoma or in association with other conditions in MEN syndrome. In more than 90 % patients, primary hyperparathyroidism is caused by a single parathyroid adenoma. Very rarely double parathyroid adenomas are seen. Secondary Hyperparathyroidism is caused in response to any chronic hypocalcaemic conditions like renal failure, gastrointestinal malabsorption, dietary rickets & drugs, like phenytoin, phenobarbital & laxative. Prolonged secondary hyperparathyroidism leads to tertiary hyperparathyroidism due to autonomous secretion. The clinical presentation of hyperparathyroidism is classically described as kidney stones, abdominal groans, painful bones, psychic moans, and fatigue overtones. In the initial course of the disease, the patients present with vague symptoms of fatigue, muscle and joint pain, frequent urination, nausea, constipation, and decreased appetite. If high index of suspicion is maintained, they can be conveniently diagnosed by routine blood tests which show increased calcium levels. However, in India still majority of people are diagnosed when they present with palpable neck mass, skeletal manifestations or deranged renal function. We hereby present 5 cases of parathyroid adenoma managed at our centre over a period of 2 years. P