Parathyroid Diseases

The parathyroid glands are four small glands located in the front of the neck, behind the thyroid glands. These glands produce parathyroid hormone (PTH), which regulates calcium balance in the body. Calcium is vital for bone health, nerve function, and muscle contractions. Parathyroid disease usually develops as a result of malfunctions in the parathyroid glands. This causes calcium levels in the body to become irregular.

Types of Parathyroid Diseases

The parathyroid glands are small endocrine organs that regulate the balance of calcium and phosphorus in the body. Dysfunction of these glands leads to parathyroid diseases. The most common types are hyperparathyroidism and hypoparathyroidism. These two main types are characterized by changes in the amount of parathyroid hormone (PTH) produced.

Primary Hyperparathyroidism: It develops when the parathyroid glands produce too much parathyroid hormone (PTH). It usually occurs because of a benign tumor (adenoma) in a gland. High PTH levels cause increased calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia). This can lead to osteoporosis, kidney stones, fatigue and muscle pain.

Secondary Hyperparathyroidism: It develops as a result of low calcium levels in the blood. The parathyroid glands produce excess hormones to balance these low calcium levels. It can manifest itself with bone pain, muscle weakness, and brittle bones.

Hypoparathyroidism: It is a condition where the parathyroid glands do not produce enough PTH. It usually occurs when the parathyroid glands are damaged during thyroid surgery. Calcium levels in the blood fall. This can cause muscle cramps, tingling, and weak hair and nails.

These diseases are usually diagnosed with blood tests and calcium, phosphorus, and PTH levels are measured. Treatment methods vary depending on the type of disease; surgical intervention, drug therapy, or regular follow-up may be applied. Early diagnosis and treatment improves the quality of life of patients.

Diagnosis of Parathyroid Diseases

The parathyroid glands are small endocrine organs that regulate the body's calcium balance. Parathyroid diseases usually occur as a result of excessive or insufficient secretion of PTH. This can lead to problems such as hypercalcemia or hypocalcemia. Various methods are used in the diagnosis of parathyroid diseases.

Blood Tests: The most common method for diagnosing parathyroid disease is blood tests. Specifically, calcium and parathyroid hormone levels are measured. High calcium and PTH levels suggest primary hyperparathyroidism. Low PTH and calcium levels may indicate hypoparathyroidism.

Bone Density Measurement: Long-term parathyroid disease can affect bone health. Bone density measurements are important in assessing the damage caused to bones by parathyroid disease.

Ultrasonography and Scintigraphy: Ultrasonography is used to determine the growth or presence of a tumor. Scintigraphy is also a common imaging method that provides more information about the functional status.

The effect of parathyroid hormone on calcium metabolism is assessed with a urine test. This test shows how much calcium the body is excreting. It is also a guide in case of suspected hyperparathyroidism. This test shows how much calcium the body is excreting. It is also a guide in case of suspected hyperparathyroidism.

Early diagnosis of parathyroid diseases is critical to the success of treatment. Delayed diagnosis can lead to serious health problems, so it is important to consult a specialist if in doubt.

Treatment of Parathyroid Diseases

The parathyroid glands consist of four small glands that control the balance of calcium in the body. Parathyroid diseases are usually caused by disorders in hormone production. Treatment varies depending on the type of disease. Parathyroid diseases are usually hyperparathyroidism And hypoparathyroidism It is seen as.

Hyperparathyroidism Treatment: It varies depending on the severity of the disease and the severity of symptoms. In mild cases, the doctor recommends regular follow-up and monitoring of calcium levels. In addition, healthy lifestyle recommendations are made.

In severe cases, surgical treatment may be required. Parathyroidectomy In this surgical procedure, called parathyroidectomy, the overactive parathyroid glands are removed. Surgical intervention provides a permanent solution for the vast majority of patients.

Hypoparathyroidism Treatment: focuses on supplementation to offset the effects of deficient parathyroid hormone. In patients with chronic hypoparathyroidism, hormone therapy with PTH analogs may also be used. This treatment ensures proper absorption of calcium in the body and regulates calcium balance.

Lifestyle and Track: Regular follow-up and monitoring of blood calcium levels is of great importance in all patients. Calcium and phosphate levels should be balanced. In addition, kidney health and bone density should be checked.