Word parts
What it means
The four small parathyroid glands behind the thyroid control blood calcium. In primary hyperparathyroidism, usually from a harmless growth in one gland, too much hormone pulls calcium out of the bones and raises the blood level (hypercalcemiahy-per-kal-SEE-mee-uhA blood calcium level above normal.hyper- abovecalc calcium-emia in the bloodFull entry ). Secondary hyperparathyroidism happens when the glands overwork in response to low calcium, as in chronic kidney diseaseKRON-ik KID-nee dih-ZEEZKidney damage or reduced kidney function that lasts longer than three months.Full entry or low vitamin D. Surgery to remove the overactive gland is a common treatment.
For the nurse
Watch calcium levels and kidney function, encourage fluids as allowed and walking, and protect weak bones from falls. After parathyroid surgery, watch for low calcium: tingling around the mouth, muscle twitching and spasms.
At a glance
| Abbreviations | PTH (parathyroid hormone) |
|---|---|
| Spanish | hiperparatiroidismo |
Related terms
calcium
A mineral that builds bones and teeth and that nerves, muscles, the heart and blood clotting need to work.
osteoporosis
A condition in which bones lose density and become thin, weak and easy to break.
hypocalcemia
A blood calcium level below normal.
hypercalcemia
A blood calcium level above normal.
vitamin D
A fat-soluble vitamin that the skin makes in sunlight and that helps the body absorb calcium for strong bones.