Hypoparathyroidism

• What is hypoparathyroidism?

  Deficient or absent parathyroid hormone -> low calcium and high phosphate in blood
• What is the most common cause of hypoparathyroidism?

  Damage or removal of parathyroid glands during surgery
• What are some causes of hypoparathyroidism?

  Post-surgical

  Autoimmune

  Congenital (e.g. DiGeorge)

  Idiopathic

  Radiation
• What is the hallmark feature of hypoparathyroidism?

  Hypocalcemia
• How may a patient present with hypoparathyroidism?

  Muscle cramps

  Numbness/tingling of extremities

  Chvostek's sign

  Trousseau's sign
• What is Chvostek's sign?

  Facial muscle spasm
• What is Trousseau's sign?

  Carpopedal spasm when inflating a BP cuff
• How is hypoparathyroidism diagnosed with bloods?

  Low serum calcium

  Low/ inappropriately normal PTH levels

  Hyperphosphatemia
• What would an ECG show for hyperparathyroidism?

  Prolonged QT interval (hypocalcemia)
• How is hypoparathyroidism managed?

  Oral calcium and vitamin D supplements
• Why are patients monitored regularly with hypoparathyroidism?

  Check for hypocalcaemia symptoms