About Parathyroid Metabolism

The parathyroid is a series of four small glands that are located on the thyroid gland. Although the thyroid gland is involved in regulating the body's metabolism, the parathyroid gland is involved in a different kind of metabolism: calcium and phosphorus. The parathryroid gland secretes parathyroid hormone, which causes calcium to be absorbed and retained in the body, and phosphorus to be eliminated.

Parathyroid Function

The parathyroid gland makes and secretes a hormone called parathyroid hormone. Parathyroid hormone is responsible for the body's absorption and metabolism of calcium. Consequently, parathyroid disorders affect calcium levels in the body.

Parathyroid Disorders

There are two main types of parathyroid disorders. The first is hypoparathryoidism, which causes the parathyroid to make too little parathyroid hormone. This can be caused by an injury to the parathryoid, a genetic problem, or an endocrine disorder. Hyperparathyroidism, on the other hand, results in too much parathyroid hormone being produced, and is commonly the result of a benign tumor or enlarged parathyroid glands.

Hypoparathyroid Symptoms

Hypoparathyroidism causes low blood calcium. This can result in brittle nails, coarse skin and tingling in the extremities. It can also cause the rapid formation of muscle cramps. Over time, hypoparathyroidism can lead to cataracts in the eyes and tooth irregularities, including misshapen tooth roots and weakened enamel. In severe cases, hypoparathyroidism (and the resulting low blood calcium) can cause headaches, memory loss and sudden muscle spasms and convulsions.

Hyperparathyroidism

Hyperparathyroidism causes elevated blood calcium, which may cause no symptoms initially. Over time, elevated blood calcium can lead to fatigue, depression or aches and pains. It can also cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, constipation and vomiting, as well as decreased appetite. Patients with hyperparathyroidism also may experience confusion, increased urination and thirst and may develop kidney stones. Their bones may also become brittle due to increased calcium metabolism.

Treatment

In most cases, hyperparathyroidism is treated by surgically removing the parathyroid gland, which then puts the patient in a hypoparathyroid state. Hypoparathyroidism is usually treated with calcium and vitamin D supplementation.