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What Causes Primary Hyperparathyroidism?
Published: Nov 16, 2023
Primary Hyperparathyroidism is a condition that disrupts your body’s calcium balance. Understanding its causes can help manage and prevent complications.
Understanding PTH and Calcium
Parathyroid hormone (PTH) plays a critical role in maintaining calcium levels in the blood. It acts quickly to increase calcium levels by prompting the bones to release calcium, the kidneys to reabsorb it, and the intestines to absorb it more efficiently. In primary hyperparathyroidism, this regulation is disrupted, leading to excessive PTH secretion even when calcium levels are normal or high.
Causes of the Condition
Primary hyperparathyroidism can be caused by several factors such as radiation exposure, genetic mutations, or environmental influences. A small percentage of cases are linked to genetic syndromes like Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN), where genetic mutations lead to abnormal growth of parathyroid tissue. Environmental factors, such as low calcium intake or exposure to endocrine disruptors, can also play a role.
Genetic Factors
Genetic causes of primary hyperparathyroidism include mutations in key genes that control cell growth. For example, mutations in the MEN1 or CDC73 genes are known to contribute to both familial and sporadic cases. These mutations can lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation, resulting in benign or malignant parathyroid growths.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's a condition where the parathyroid glands secrete too much hormone, disrupting calcium balance.
Causes include genetic mutations, radiation exposure, and low calcium intake.
Yes, in some cases it can be passed down through families.
Ensuring adequate calcium intake and avoiding radiation can help reduce risk.
The Bottom Line
Understanding the causes of primary hyperparathyroidism is key to effective management and prevention.
References
- Minisola S, Arnold A, Belaya Z, et al. Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, and Genetics of Primary Hyperparathyroidism. J Bone Miner Res 2022; 37:2315.
- Brown EM. Extracellular Ca2+ sensing, regulation of parathyroid cell function, and role of Ca2+ and other ions as extracellular (first) messengers. Physiol Rev 1991; 71:371.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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