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Contents
  • Understanding Asymptomatic PHPT
  • Symptomatic PHPT: The Classic Signs
  • Global Differences in PHPT Symptoms

What You Need to Know About Primary Hyperparathyroidism (PHPT)

What You Need to Know About Primary Hyperparathyroidism (PHPT)

The Big Picture

Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) often goes unnoticed until routine tests reveal high calcium levels. This article explores the symptoms and manifestations of PHPT.
Contents
  • Understanding Asymptomatic PHPT
  • Symptomatic PHPT: The Classic Signs
  • Global Differences in PHPT Symptoms

Understanding Asymptomatic PHPT

In many Western countries, PHPT is frequently discovered through routine biochemical screenings, with patients typically showing no obvious symptoms. Despite appearing healthy, these individuals may have mild hypercalcemia, often less than 1 mg/dL above the normal range. While the condition might seem harmless at first, around 30% of these patients eventually develop complications such as bone issues or kidney stones.

Symptomatic PHPT: The Classic Signs

PHPT symptoms are often remembered by the phrase 'bones, stones, abdominal moans, and psychic groans.' This refers to bone pain, kidney stones, digestive issues, and mood disturbances. Even if calcium levels don't seem high, symptoms can appear if hypercalcemia develops quickly or becomes severe, making timely detection crucial.
Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is a condition characterized by excessive production of parathyroid hormone leading to high calcium levels. Symptoms can include bone pain, kidney stones, digestive issues, and mood disturbances.

Global Differences in PHPT Symptoms

While asymptomatic cases are common in Western nations, symptomatic PHPT is more prevalent in countries like India and China. Vitamin D deficiency, often seen alongside PHPT in these regions, may exacerbate bone and kidney issues. This deficiency can lead to more severe cases, characterized by larger parathyroid adenomas and increased fractures.

FAQs

What is PHPT?

PHPT is a condition where the parathyroid glands produce too much hormone, leading to high calcium levels.

Can PHPT be symptomless?

Yes, many people with PHPT have no symptoms initially.

What are the classic symptoms of PHPT?

They include bone pain, kidney stones, digestive issues, and mood changes.

Is PHPT more common in certain countries?

Yes, symptomatic PHPT is more common in countries with prevalent vitamin D deficiency.

Key Takeaways

Understanding the different presentations of PHPT can lead to better diagnosis and management.
Talk to Doctronic about your risk factors for PHPT today!
Additional References
  1. El-Hajj Fuleihan G, Chakhtoura M, Cipriani C, et al. Classical and Nonclassical Manifestations of Primary Hyperparathyroidism. J Bone Miner Res 2022; 37:2330.
  2. Yadav SK, Johri G, Bichoo RA, et al. Primary hyperparathyroidism in developing world: a systematic review on the changing clinical profile of the disease. Arch Endocrinol Metab 2020; 64:105.
  3. Arya AK, Kumari P, Bhadada SK, et al. Progressive rise in the prevalence of asymptomatic primary hyperparathyroidism in India: Data from PHPT registry. J Bone Miner Metab 2021; 39:253.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.