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The document discusses the parathyroid glands and their role in regulating calcium levels. It describes how the parathyroid glands produce parathyroid hormone (PTH) which increases blood calcium levels when low. Tests for PTH, calcium, phosphate, and vitamin D can help diagnose parathyroid disorders like hyperparathyroidism and hypoparathyroidism. Hyperparathyroidism causes high blood calcium and associated symptoms, while hypoparathyroidism is characterized by low blood calcium levels and related issues.

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42 views10 pages

Wa0001.

The document discusses the parathyroid glands and their role in regulating calcium levels. It describes how the parathyroid glands produce parathyroid hormone (PTH) which increases blood calcium levels when low. Tests for PTH, calcium, phosphate, and vitamin D can help diagnose parathyroid disorders like hyperparathyroidism and hypoparathyroidism. Hyperparathyroidism causes high blood calcium and associated symptoms, while hypoparathyroidism is characterized by low blood calcium levels and related issues.

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Lab 6

Parathyroid gland hormones


and its diseases

Prepared by:
Assistant Lecturer Hamad Ali Hamad
M.Sc. Cancer Biology & Oncology
B.Sc. Med. Lab. Tech.
Para-thyroid gland

• The parathyroid glands are small, pea-


sized glands located in the neck, typically
situated behind or adjacent to the thyroid
gland. Despite their small size and
inconspicuous nature, the parathyroid
glands play a vital role in maintaining
calcium balance in the body.

There are typically four parathyroid


glands, but the number can vary among
individuals.
Role of Parathyroid gland in Calcium Regulation:
• The main role of the parathyroid glands is to produce and secrete a
hormone called parathyroid hormone (PTH).
• Parathyroid hormone is a key regulator of calcium and phosphorus
levels in the blood.

Importance of Calcium Balance


• Calcium is a critical mineral in the human body, with a wide range of
functions beyond just bone health.
• Calcium is essential for muscle contraction, nerve function, blood clotting,
and cell communication.
• The body must maintain a precise balance of calcium in the blood to
ensure that these vital processes function correctly.
Importance of Calcium Homeostasis:

• If blood calcium levels become too low, it can lead to muscle cramps,
tetany (prolonged muscle contractions), and even seizures.
• On the other hand, excessive calcium levels in the blood can lead to
kidney stones, bone loss, and other complications.
• Parathyroid hormone, produced by the parathyroid glands, plays a
central role in maintaining calcium homeostasis.
• When blood calcium levels drop, PTH is released to stimulate the
release of calcium from the bones, increase calcium reabsorption in
the kidneys, and promote the production of active vitamin D, which
aids calcium absorption from the intestines
Parathyroid gland Lab. Tests:

1. Serum Calcium Levels:


• Measurement of the total calcium concentration in the blood.
• Both ionized (active) and bound calcium levels can be
assessed.
• Abnormal calcium levels can indicate a parathyroid disorder.

2. Serum Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) Levels:


• Measurement of the concentration of PTH in the blood.
• Elevated PTH levels may indicate primary
hyperparathyroidism, while low PTH levels may suggest
hypoparathyroidism.
3. Phosphate Levels:
1. Measurement of serum phosphate levels.
2. Elevated phosphate levels may be associated with hypoparathyroidism, as
PTH typically regulates phosphate metabolism.
4. Vitamin D Levels:
1. Measurement of the active form of vitamin D (calcitriol) or total vitamin D
levels.
2. Low levels of active vitamin D may be associated with secondary
hyperparathyroidism, as vitamin D is involved in calcium absorption.
5. Calcium and Creatinine Clearance (24-Hour Urine Test):
1. A 24-hour urine test to assess the amount of calcium and creatinine excreted
in urine.
2. This test helps evaluate renal calcium handling and may be used in cases of
hypercalcemia or hypercalciuria.
Hyperparathyroidism symptoms:

1.Hypercalcemia:
Elevated levels of calcium in the blood are a hallmark of
hyperparathyroidism. This can lead to various symptoms, including:
1. Excessive thirst and frequent urination
2. Kidney stones (renal calculi)
3. Muscle weakness and fatigue
4. Bone pain and increased risk of fractures
2. Gastrointestinal Symptoms:
1. Nausea and vomiting
2. Constipation
3. Neuromuscular Symptoms:
1. Muscle aches and weakness
2. Depression or mood changes
3. Cognitive dysfunction
4. Skeletal Issues:
1. Osteoporosis (bone thinning)
2. Increased risk of fractures
5. Renal Symptoms:
1. Increased urinary calcium excretion can lead to kidney stone formation.
6. Cardiovascular Effects:
1. High blood pressure
2. Increased risk of heart disease
Hypoparathyroidism:
1.Hypocalcemia: Low levels of calcium in the blood are characteristic of
hypoparathyroidism and result in a range of neuromuscular and other
symptoms:
1. Muscle cramps and spasms
2. Numbness and tingling, particularly in the fingers, toes, and around the mouth
(paresthesia)
3. Seizures
2.Neurological Symptoms:
1. Anxiety
2. Depression
3. Cognitive impairment
4. Personality changes
3. Cardiovascular Symptoms:
1. Abnormal heart rhythms
2. Hypotension (low blood pressure)
4. Skin and Hair Issues:
1. Dry, scaly skin
2. Coarse hair
5. Cataracts: Clouding of the lens in the eye
• It's important to note that the severity of symptoms can vary widely from
person to person and may depend on the underlying cause of the parathyroid
disorder.
• Primary hyperparathyroidism is most often caused by a benign tumor in one
of the parathyroid glands (parathyroid adenoma), while secondary
hyperparathyroidism can be due to kidney disease or other factors.
Hypoparathyroidism may result from surgery, autoimmune conditions, or
genetic factors.

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