Definition

The parathyroid glands are four pea-sized glands. They are located next to the thyroid gland in the neck. The glands secrete the parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH helps to regulate the level of calcium in the blood.

In hypoparathyroidism, there is not enough PTH secreted. This causes low levels of calcium in the blood. Low blood calcium is known as hypocalcemia.

Causes

Hypoparathyroidism may be caused by:

• Removal of the parathyroid glands
• Underlying autoimmune disorders
• Absence of the parathyroid glands at birth
• Damage to the parathyroid glands
• Genetics conditions, such as DiGeorge syndrome
• Magnesium deficiency due to alcohol use disorder and/or malnutrition
• Other causes, such as metal overload from iron, magnesium, or aluminium

In some cases, a cause cannot be found.

Risk Factors

Factors that may increase your chance of hypoparathyroidism include:

• Multiple autoimmune disorders
• Thyroid or parathyroid surgery
• Family history of hypoparathyroidism

Symptoms

Hypoparathyroidism does not always cause symptoms. If symptoms do develop, they may include:

• Weakness
• Muscle cramps or twitching
• Pain
• Difficulty with walking
• Tingling around the mouth, fingers, and toes
• Excessive nervousness
• Loss of memory
• Mood swings
• Anxiety
• Blurred vision due to cataracts
• Thin, brittle nails
• Dry and scaly skin
• Seizures

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.

Your bodily fluids may be tested. This can be done with:

• Blood tests
• Urine test

Images may be taken of your bodily structures. This can be done with:

• X-ray
• CT scan

Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Treatment options include the following:

Prevention

There are no current guidelines to prevent hypoparathyroidism.

NORD—National Organization for Rare Disorders http://www.rarediseases.org

Health Canada http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca

Hypoparathyroidism. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed
Updated June 2, 2014. Accessed September 30, 2014.

Hypoparathyroidism. National Organization for Rare Disorders website. Available at:
http://www.rarediseases.org/rare-disease-information/rare-diseases/byID/703/viewFullReport
Updated April 2, 2014. Accessed September 30, 2014.

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