Endocrinopathy Causing Skeletal Decalcification and Ectopic Calcification Highlighted by Imaging Tour

Abstract

Primary Hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is an endocrine disorder which is caused by increased production of Parathyroid Hormone (PTH). Hypercalcemia leads to a number of symptoms and may cause patient's morbidity and even mortality if left untreated. In the present case, a 21-year-old female presenting with frequent attacks of urinary tract infection, diffuse bone pain and episodic pain abdomen since 15 months. On clinical, biochemical and radiological evaluation, the case was diagnosed as PHPT due to left superior parathyroid adenoma. Patient underwent uneventful surgical parathyroidectomy following preoperative optimisation. She achieved normocalcaemia without any surgical complications. This case is presented to highlight the impact of hyperparathyroidism on calcium metabolism leading to extensive skeletal decalcification and ectopic deposition of calcium leading to end organ damage. Various images are used to highlight this phenomenon of decalcification and calcification.

Keywords

• hyperparathyroidism
• nephrocalcinosis
• osteoporosis
• parathyroidectomy
• pancreatitis
• surgery