Parathyroid Disorders

What are the Parathyroid Glands?

The parathyroid glands are four small glands located in your neck, near or attached to the thyroid gland. These tiny glands, each about the size of a grain of rice, play a crucial role in regulating calcium levels in your blood and bones, and do this by producing parathyroid hormone (PTH). When calcium levels in your blood drop, the parathyroid glands release more PTH which helps is crucial for many bodily functions, including bone health, muscle contractions, and nerve signalling. Despite their name and location, they're separate from the thyroid and have a different function.

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What problems affect the parathyroid gland?

Problems with the parathyroid gland can can be broadly categorised into two main types:

1. Hyperparathyroidism: When the parathyroid glands produce too much PTH, leading to high calcium levels in the blood.
2. Hypoparathyroidism: When the parathyroid glands don't produce enough PTH, leading to low calcium levels in the blood.

At Hills Surgical Oncology, serving patients in Wahroonga and the surrounding areas, Dr Muzib Abdul-Razak specialises in diagnosing and treating all types of parathyroid disorders. His expertise as a surgical oncologist in Sydney ensures that patients receive the most appropriate and effective treatment for their specific condition.

Image suggestion: A chart comparing normal PTH levels with levels in hyper- and hypoparathyroidism]

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What causes Parathyroid Disorders?

The causes of parathyroid disorders can vary depending on the specific condition:Causes of Hyperparathyroidism:

1. Benign tumour (adenoma) in one or more parathyroid glands
2. Enlargement of all four parathyroid glands
3. Rarely, cancer of a parathyroid gland
4. Certain genetic conditions

Causes of Hypoparathyroidism:

1. Damage to the parathyroid glands during thyroid or neck surgery
2. Autoimmune disorders
3. Rare genetic conditions
4. Low magnesium levels in the blood

Understanding these causes helps Dr Muzib Abdul-Razak and the team at Hills Surgical Oncology develop targeted treatment plans for patients in the Norwest area and beyond.

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What are the symptoms of Parathyroid Disorders?

Symptoms of parathyroid disorders can be subtle and may be mistaken for other conditions. They can vary depending on whether you have hyperparathyroidism or hypoparathyroidism.

Symptoms of Hyperparathyroidism:

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Depression
• Bone pain
• Kidney stones
• Frequent urination
• Abdominal pain
• Forgetfulness or confusion

Symptoms of Hypoparathyroidism:

• Tingling or burning in fingers, toes, and lips
• Muscle aches or cramps
• Mood changes, such as anxiety or depression
• Dry, coarse skin
• Brittle nails
• Seizures (in severe cases)

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical advice promptly.

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How are Parathyroid Disorders diagnosed?

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment of parathyroid disorders. The diagnostic process typically involves several steps:

1. Blood tests: These measure levels of calcium, PTH, and vitamin D in your blood.
2. Urine tests: To check how much calcium is being excreted in your urine.
3. Imaging tests: These may include:
   • Ultrasound: To visualise the parathyroid glands and detect any enlargement or tumours.
   • Sestamibi scan: A nuclear medicine test that can locate overactive parathyroid glands.
   • CT or MRI scans: For a more detailed view of the parathyroid glands and surrounding structures.
4. Bone density scan: To check for bone loss, which can occur in hyperparathyroidism.

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What treatments are available for parathyroid disorders?

Treatment for parathyroid disorders depends on the specific condition and its severity. At Hills Surgical Oncology, we offer a range of treatment options:

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Treatment for Hyperparathyroidism

1. Surgery (Parathyroidectomy): This is the most common treatment for primary hyperparathyroidism. It involves removing the overactive parathyroid gland(s). Dr Abdul-Razak specialises in minimally invasive parathyroid surgery, which often results in quicker recovery times and smaller scars.
2. Monitoring: For mild cases, your doctor may recommend regular check-ups to monitor your condition.
3. Medications: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help control calcium levels.

Treatment for Hypoparathyroidism

1. Calcium and vitamin D supplements: These help to raise and maintain calcium levels in the blood.
2. Magnesium supplements: If low magnesium is contributing to the condition.
3. Parathyroid hormone replacement: In some cases, synthetic PTH may be prescribed.

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What should I expect during the recovery from Parathyroid surgery?

If you require parathyroid surgery, knowing what to expect during recovery can help you prepare:

1. Hospital stay: Most patients can go home the same day or the day after surgery.
2. Pain management: You may experience some neck discomfort, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
3. Incision care: You'll receive instructions on how to care for your incision to promote healing.
4. Voice changes: Some patients may experience temporary hoarseness.
5. Calcium monitoring: Your calcium levels will be closely monitored after surgery, and you may need to take calcium supplements temporarily.
6. Follow-up appointments: Regular check-ups will be necessary to monitor your calcium levels and overall health.