2023-07-06 08:00:00
Title: Understanding Parathyroid Gland Diseases and Treatment Methods
Author: Judith Brown
Publication Date: July 6, 2023
The parathyroid glands, similar to the thyroid gland, can undergo both underactive and overactive conditions. In this article, we will explore how these diseases develop and the available treatment options.
Located within the thyroid capsule and the surrounding fatty tissue, the human body typically consists of four parathyroid glands, each measuring approximately 5mm in length, similar to a grain of rice or lentil. These glandulae parathyroideae play a vital role in regulating the body’s calcium metabolism by producing the parathyroid hormone.
There are various diseases associated with the parathyroid glands, some of which can be treated with medication, while others may require surgery. The following are five common diseases related to the parathyroid glands:
1. Overactive parathyroid gland (hyperparathyroidism): This condition is characterized by an increased level of the parathyroid hormone and calcium in the blood. Consequently, excessive calcium is released from the bones, leading to bone deformities, fractures, painful calcium deposits in muscles and joints, gastrointestinal issues, and reduced physical and mental performance. Surgery is typically the most effective treatment for long-term management of hyperparathyroidism. Doctors differentiate between primary, secondary, and tertiary hyperparathyroidism.
2. Primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT): This form of hyperparathyroidism occurs due to the parathyroid glands themselves producing an excess of the parathyroid hormone. It is primarily caused by a benign tumor (adenoma) or functional overproduction (hyperplasia). Parathyroid cancer is extremely rare.
3. Secondary hyperparathyroidism (sHPT): In this case, hyperfunction results from underlying diseases in other organs, particularly the kidneys. Kidney disease leads to a deficiency of phosphate and reduced production of vitamin D. The compensatory response triggers an excessive production of parathyroid hormone by all parathyroid glands, resulting in enlargement (hyperplasia).
4. Tertiary hyperparathyroidism (tHPT): This condition combines elements of both primary and secondary hyperparathyroidism, where secondary hyperparathyroidism is accompanied by a hormone-producing adenoma.
5. Underactive parathyroid gland (hypoparathyroidism): The most common cause of hypofunction in the parathyroid glands is damage incurred during surgical procedures, such as thyroid surgery. Treatment for patients with hypoparathyroidism typically involves medications containing calcium and vitamin D preparations. In cases where there is still residual production of endogenous parathyroid hormone, calcium intake is gradually reduced to stimulate the remaining parathyroid tissue for enhanced hormone production.
It’s important to note that this article contains general information about parathyroid gland diseases and does not substitute for professional medical advice. For more personalized information, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider.]
#diseases #organ #pairs