Hypoparathyroidism
Hypoparathyroidism is a rare condition where the parathyroid glands, which are in the neck near the thyroid gland, produce too little parathyroid hormone. Parathyroid hormone works in conjunction with other hormones to regulate levels of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D in the blood and bone. When the parathyroid glands produce too little PTH, This makes blood calcium levels fall (hypocalcaemia) and blood phosphorus levels rise (hyperphosphataemia), which can cause a wide range of symptoms, including muscle cramps, pain and twitching, adversely affecting many physiologic processes.
Symptoms of hypoparathyroidism
Calcium supplies our bodies with the electrical energy needed for normal muscle contraction and nervous system function. Symptoms of hypoparathyroidism are related to dysfunction of the nerves and muscles. Symptoms that arise from hypocalcemia range from mild to severe. The symptoms of hypoparathyroidism can include:
- a tingling sensation (paraesthesia) in your fingertips, toes and lips
- twitching facial muscles
- muscle pains or cramps, particularly in your legs, feet or tummy
- tiredness
- mood changes, such as feeling irritable, anxious or depressed
- dry, rough skin
- coarse hair that breaks easily and can fall out
- fingernails that break easily
- Dental malformations (eg, misshapen teeth, loss of enamel)
- Cataracts
- Headaches, memory loss
- Tetany (severe muscle spasm)
- Impaired kidney function
- Yeast infection (candidiasis) of the nails, skin, mouth
- Seizures caused by calcium deposits in the brain
- Cardiac arrhythmias, fainting episodes
- Mental retardation
Diagnosis hypoparathyroidism
During a physical exam, the physician may ask if you’ve experienced muscle spasms, particularly in the face or hands. A diagnosis of hypoparathyroidism is confirmed with a blood test that measures levels of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and PTH. A urine test may also be ordered if it is suspected that the kidneys are excreting too much calcium. Hypoparathyroidism is diagnosed after a blood test has shown:
- low parathyroid hormone levels
- low calcium levels
- high phosphorus levels
Additional tests include the following:
- Urine test to determine the amount of calcium excreted by the kidneys
- An electrocardiogram (EKG) measures the electrical activity in your heart. The information from this test can tell your doctor if you have an abnormal heart rhythm, which can be caused by calcium deficiency.
- X-rays and bone density tests can help your doctor determine if low calcium levels have affected your bones.
References
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hypoparathyroidism/
https://www.endocrineweb.com/conditions/hypoparathyroidism/hypoparathyroidism
https://www.healthline.com/health/hypoparathyroidism#outlook
