Rare case of pancreatitis treated by minimally invasive parathyroidectomy

Abstract

Hypercalcaemia-induced pancreatitis is a rare and often overlooked phenomena. Despite hyperparathyroidism being a common cause of hypercalcaemia, the association between pancreatitis and hyperparathyroidism remains controversial and is often overlooked. Patients may however suffer serious complications when diagnosis and treatment of hyperparathyroidism are delayed due to insufficient awareness. We present a man in his 40s who was admitted with progressive epigastric pain due to pancreatitis. Blood tests showed elevated serum calcium levels, which led to extensive investigation. Further workups led to the diagnosis of primary hyperparathyroidism due to three parathyroid adenomas. The patient underwent minimally invasive parathyroidectomy, which was followed by an uncomplicated recovery and normal serum calcium levels.