How is Hypercalcemia Diagnosed in Cancer Patients?
How is Hypercalcemia Diagnosed in Cancer Patients?
The Big Picture
Diagnosing hypercalcemia in cancer patients involves several steps and tests. This guide breaks down the process for better understanding.
Contents
- Initial Diagnosis Steps
- Advanced Testing for Clarity
- When to Consider Other Tests
Initial Diagnosis Steps
The first step is confirming elevated calcium levels through a blood test. Following this, serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels are measured. A high or normal PTH level usually suggests primary hyperparathyroidism.
Advanced Testing for Clarity
When PTH levels are low, further testing for parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) and vitamin D metabolites is needed. Elevated PTHrP indicates humoral hypercalcemia of malignancy.
When to Consider Other Tests
If PTHrP and vitamin D metabolites aren't elevated, other tests like serum and urine protein electrophoresis can help. These tests can pinpoint other causes like multiple myeloma.
FAQs
What is the first step in diagnosing hypercalcemia?
Confirming elevated calcium levels through a blood test.
What does a high PTH level indicate?
It usually suggests primary hyperparathyroidism.
What does elevated PTHrP mean?
It indicates humoral hypercalcemia of malignancy.
What if PTHrP and vitamin D aren't elevated?
Other tests like serum protein electrophoresis may be needed.
Wrapping Up
A thorough diagnostic approach is key to identifying the cause of hypercalcemia in cancer patients.
Additional References
- Clines GA, Guise TA. Hypercalcaemia of malignancy. Endocr Relat Cancer 2005; 12:549.
- Mirrakhimov AE. Hypercalcemia of Malignancy: An Update. N Am J Med Sci 2015; 7:483.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.