Summary about Disease
Parathyroid cancer is a rare form of cancer that develops in one or more of the parathyroid glands. These glands, located in the neck near the thyroid, are responsible for producing parathyroid hormone (PTH), which regulates calcium levels in the blood. Cancerous tumors can cause the glands to overproduce PTH, leading to hypercalcemia (high blood calcium) and related health problems.
Symptoms
Symptoms of parathyroid cancer are primarily related to hypercalcemia. These may include:
Fatigue and weakness
Bone pain
Nausea, vomiting, and constipation
Increased thirst and frequent urination
Kidney stones
Abdominal pain
Depression or other mood changes
Confusion
Memory problems
Causes
The exact cause of parathyroid cancer is not well understood. Genetic factors are suspected to play a role in some cases, particularly in individuals with certain inherited syndromes like multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) or hyperparathyroidism-jaw tumor syndrome (HPT-JT). However, most cases appear to occur sporadically without a clear cause.
Medicine Used
There is no specific medication to cure parathyroid cancer. Medical treatments focus on managing hypercalcemia and its effects. Medications used may include:
Calcimimetics (e.g., cinacalcet): Reduce PTH secretion.
Bisphosphonates (e.g., zoledronic acid): Help strengthen bones and reduce calcium release from bones.
Calcitonin: Helps lower blood calcium levels, but its effect is often temporary.
IV fluids and diuretics: To help flush excess calcium from the body.
Is Communicable
Parathyroid cancer is not a communicable disease. It cannot be spread from person to person through any known means.
Precautions
There are no specific precautions to prevent parathyroid cancer, as the exact causes are largely unknown. Individuals with a family history of parathyroid cancer or related genetic syndromes may consider genetic counseling and screening.
How long does an outbreak last?
Parathyroid cancer is not an infectious disease and does not involve outbreaks. The symptoms associated with the cancer persist until the underlying cause (the tumor) is addressed, typically through surgery. The duration of symptoms prior to diagnosis can vary significantly.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis of parathyroid cancer typically involves:
Blood tests: To measure PTH and calcium levels.
Urine tests: To measure calcium levels.
Imaging tests: Such as ultrasound, sestamibi scan, CT scan, or MRI to locate and assess the tumor.
Biopsy: A tissue sample from the parathyroid gland is examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
Surgical Exploration: In some cases, the diagnosis is only confirmed during surgery to remove the parathyroid gland.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary greatly. Some individuals may experience mild symptoms for months or even years before diagnosis, while others may develop more severe symptoms rapidly. There isn't a typical or predictable timeline. Symptoms can worsen over time as the tumor grows and PTH levels increase.
Important Considerations
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.
Surgery is the primary treatment for parathyroid cancer.
Long-term monitoring of calcium and PTH levels is necessary after treatment to detect recurrence.
Individuals with parathyroid cancer should be managed by a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including endocrinologists, surgeons, and oncologists.
Clinical trials may offer access to new and innovative treatments.