Primary Hyperparathyroidism

Key points

• • The parathyroid glands make parathyroid hormone, which raises blood calcium by acting on bone, kidney and gut.
• • In primary hyperparathyroidism one gland (usually a benign adenoma) makes too much hormone, so the blood calcium rises.
• • The high calcium classically gives stones, bones, abdominal groans and psychic moans, from kidney stones, bone pain, gut upset and low mood.
• • The bone loses calcium and may show cysts, and the kidney may form stones and lose function over time.
• • Blood tests show a high calcium with a high or inappropriately normal parathyroid hormone, which points to the diagnosis.