Hypoparathyroidism

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Endocrine glands

Hypoparathyroidism

Treatment:

The goal of treatment is to restore the calcium and mineral balance within the body.

Oral calcium carbonate and vitamin D supplements are usually life-long therapy. Blood levels are measured regularly to make sure that the dose is correct. A high-calcium, low-phosphorous diet is recommended.

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In the event of a life-threatening attack of low calcium levels or tetany (prolonged muscle contractions), calcium is administered by intravenous (IV) infusion. Precautions are taken to prevent seizures or larynx spasms. The heart is monitored for abnormal rhythms until the person is stable. When the life-threatening attack has been controlled, treatment continues with medicine taken by mouth.

Expectations (prognosis):

The probable outcome is good if the diagnosis is made early. However, dental changes, cataracts, and brain calcifications are irreversible.

Complications:

Tetany can lead to a blocked airway, requiring a tracheostomy.
Stunted growth, malformed teeth, and slow mental development can occur if hypoparathyroidism develops in childhood.
Overtreatment with vitamin D and calcium can cause hypercalcemia (high blood calcium) and sometimes interfere with kidney function.
There is an increased risk of pernicious anemia, Addison's disease, cataract development, and Parkinson's disease.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if any symptoms of hypoparathyroidism develop.

Emergency symptoms include seizures and difficulty breathing.