Long-Term Hypoparathyroidism and Hypophosphatemia in Dialysis Patients

Abstract

Background and Objectives. Hypoparathyroidism in patients with functioning kidneys leads to hyperphosphatemia. This article reviews data suggesting that hypoparathyroidism in patients on dialysis leads to hypophosphatemia. Design. Clinical data of the following were reviewed: ( a) a patient with hypoparathyroidism before and during chronic dialysis; ( b) patients on dialysis with surgically created hypoparathyroidism; ( c) dialysis patients being treated with Cinacalcet, a calcium-sensing receptor agonist that lowers parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels; and ( d) dialysis patients being treated with Velcalcetide, a new calcium-sensing receptor agonist that also lowers PTH. Results. In the patient presented in this study, in patients with surgically created hypoparathyroidism, and those receiving Cinacalcet or Velcalcetide, a fall in PTH was associated with hypophosphatemia or a fall in serum phosphorus. Conclusion. In patients on dialysis, hypoparathyroidism may lead to hypophosphatemia.