Hypoparathyroidism

The following factors increase your chance of developing hypoparathyroidism: Thyroid or parathyroid surgeryFamily history of hypoparathyroidismAge: under 16 years old or over 40 years old Symptoms If you experience any of these symptoms, do not assume it is due to hypoparathyroidism. These symptoms may be caused by other, less serious health conditions. If you experience any one of them, see your physician. WeaknessMuscle crampsor twitchingPainDifficulty with walkingTingling around the mouth, fingers, and toesExcessive nervousnessLoss of memory Personality change or mood swings ( anxiety ) Blurred vision due to cataractsHoarsenessThin, brittle nailsDry and scaly skinSeizuresWheezing or shortness of breath Symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease DiagnosisYour doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. You may be referred to a doctor who specializes in hormone disorders (endocrinologist). Tests may include the following: Blood teststo measure calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin D, and/or PTHUrine testto measure calcium excretionX-ray or CT scan of the skull and bones TreatmentTalk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:

Calcium and Vitamin D SupplementationHypoparathyroidism is treated by oral calcium and vitamin D supplementation, which usually must be taken indefinitely. In addition, calcium may be administered by injection when immediate symptom relief is necessary. Parathyroid Gland TransplantationTransplantation of previously preserved parathyroid gland is a successful procedure in approximately 25% of cases with normalization of blood calcium. PreventionThere are no guidelines for preventing hypoparathyroidism. RESOURCES: American Association of Clinical Endocrinologistshttp://www.aace.com Hypoparathyroidism Associationhttp://www.hypoparathyroidism.org National Organization for Rare Disorders, Inc.http://www.rarediseases.org CANADIAN RESOURCES: Canada Health Portalhttp://www.canadian-health-network.ca/ Canadian Society of Endocrinology and Metabolismhttp://www.csem.mcgill.ca/ References: Hypoparathyroid information. The Hypoparathyroidism Association website. Available at: http://www.hypoparathyroidism.org/definition.php . Accessed July 4, 2005. Hypoparathyroidism. National Organization for Rare Disorders website. Available at: http://www.rarediseases.org/search/rdbdetail_abstract.html?disname=Hypoparathyroidism . Accessed July 4, 2005.

Hypoparathyroidism, familial isolated; FIH. Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man website. Available at: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/dispomim.cgi?id=146200 . Accessed July 4, 2005. Marx SJ. Hyperpararthyroid and hypopararthyroid disorders. N Engl J Med . 2000;343:1863. Thakker RV. Genetic developments in hypopararthyroidism. Lancet . 2001;357:974. Winer KK, Ko CW, et al. Long-term treatment of hypoparathyroidism: a randomized controlled study camparing parathyroid hormone (1-34) versus calcitriol and calcium. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2003;88:4214-4220. Last reviewed March 2008 by David Juan, MDPlease be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.