Definition

The parathyroid glands are four pea-sized glands. They are located next to the thyroid gland in the neck. The glands secrete the parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH helps to regulate the level of calcium in the blood.

In hypoparathyroidism, there is not enough PTH secreted. This causes low levels of calcium in the blood. Low blood calcium is known as hypocalcemia.

Thyroid and Parathyroid Glands: Posterior (Back) View Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

Hypoparathyroidism may be caused by:

• Removal of the parathyroid glands
• Underlying autoimmune disorders
• Absence of the parathyroid glands at birth
• Damage to the parathyroid glands
• Genetics conditions such as DiGeorge syndrome
• Magnesium deficiency due to alcoholism, and/or malnutrition
• Other causes, such as metal overload from iron, magnesium, or aluminium

In some cases, a cause cannot be found.

Risk Factors    TOP

Factors that increase your chances of hypoparathyroidism include:

• Multiple autoimmune disorders
• Thyroid or parathyroid surgery
• Family history of hypoparathyroidism

Symptoms    TOP

Many patients with hypoparathyroidism will have not symptoms. If symptoms do develop, they may include:

• Weakness
• Muscle cramps or twitching
• Pain
• Difficulty with walking
• Tingling around the mouth, fingers, and toes
• Excessive nervousness
• Loss of memory
• Mood swings
• Anxiety
• Blurred vision due to cataracts
• Thin, brittle nails
• Dry and scaly skin
• Seizures

Diagnosis    TOP

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.

Your doctor may need to test your body fluids. This can be done with:

• Blood tests
• Urine test

Your doctor may need pictures of your body structures. This can be done with:

• X-ray
• CT scan

Treatment    TOP

Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Treatment options include the following:

Prevention    TOP

There are no current guidelines to prevent hypoparathyroidism.