Low Urine Calcium Excretion in African American Patients with Primary Hyperparathyroidism

ObjectiveTo evaluate the prevalence of low urine calcium excretion in African American patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT), a common disorder associated with bone and renal complications, and to assess the distinction between PHPT and familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia (FHH), a rare benign genetic disease.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective study on a cohort of 1,297 patients in whom a 24-hour urine study was performed for measurement of urine calcium and creatinine. PHPT was diagnosed if the serum calcium concentration was ≥ 10.5 mg/dL and intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) was ≥ 40 pg/mL. Patients receiving medications that affect urine calcium or with glomerular filtration rate ≤ 30 mL/min were excluded.ResultsNinety-six patients satisfied the diagnostic criteria for PHPT. The African American (n = 70) and non-African American (n = 26) patients did not differ in their mean age, body mass index, glomerular filtration rate, serum PTH, 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, and 24-hour urine creatinine values. Median values of urine calcium/creatinine (mg/g) were 122 for African American versus 214 for non-African American patients (P = .006). Thirty-one of 70 African American patients (44%) had a urine calcium/creatinine ratio ≤ 100 mg/g, whereas only 2 of 26 non-African American patients (8%) had this value (P = .001).ConclusionThe prevalence of low urine calcium excretion among African American patients with PHPT is unexpectedly high. A threshold of 100 mg/g urine calcium/ creatinine identified 44% of such patients with PHPT as having FHH in this cohort. Therefore, other clinical criteria and laboratory variables should be used to distinguish PHPT from FHH in African American patients with PTH-dependent hypercalcemia. (Endocr Pract. 2011;17: 867-872)     

Urinary Calcium Excretion in Primary Hyperparathyroidism: Relationship to 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Status

ObjectiveTo determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) and evaluate the relationship between urinary calcium excretion and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH-D) levels in patients with PHPT.MethodsWe present a case report and a review of the medical records of patients with PHPT. Of 75 patients with PHPT substantiated by hypercalcemia and increased levels of intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), 35 were identified with laboratory evaluation of vitamin D levels and 24-hour urinary calcium excretion. These study subjects were stratified as 25-OH-D deficient, insufficient, or replete (on the basis of serum values of < 15, 15 to 25, or > 25 ng/mL, respectively). Total 24-hour urinary calcium excretion and the fractional excretion of calcium (FECa) were analyzed as a function of 25-OH-D status.ResultsOf the 35 study subjects, 14 (40%) and 13 (37%) had 25-OH-D deficiency or insufficiency, respectively. Those patients with a 25-OH-D level < 15 ng/mL had higher serum iPTH concentrations as well as lower urinary calcium excretion and FECa. No significant correlations were found, however, between 25-OH-D status and iPTH concentrations (r = -0.21; P = 0.23), total 24-hour urinary calcium excretion (r = 0.07; P = 0.7), or FECa (r = 0.04; P = 0.8).ConclusionVitamin D deficiency (25-OH-D levels < 15 ng/mL) was common in our population of patients with PHPT. Urinary calcium excretion was not significantly altered by 25-OH-D deficiency in patients with newly recognized PHPT. Measurements of total urinary calcium excretion and FECa can be reliably used to rule out familial benign hypocalciuric hypercalcemia in the initial evaluation of PHPT, regardless of 25-OH-D status. Determining 25-OH-D concentrations best assesses the vitamin D status. (Endocr Pract. 2005;11:37-42)     

Factores de riesgo cardiovascular en pacientes con hiperparatiroidismo primario asintomático

ObjectivesPatients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP), even asymptomatic, have an increased cardiovascular risk. However, data on reversibility or improvement of cardiovascular disorders with surgery are controversial. Our aims were to assess the prevalence of classic cardiovascular risk factors in patients with asymptomatic PHP, to explore their relationship with calcium and PTH levels, and analyze the effect of parathyroidectomy on those cardiovascular risk factors.Patients and methodsA retrospective, observational study of two groups of patients with asymptomatic PHP: 40 patients on observation and 33 patients who underwent surgery. Clinical and biochemical data related to PHP and various cardiovascular risk factors were collected from all patients at baseline and one year after surgery in the operated patients.ResultsA high prevalence of obesity (59.9%), type 2 diabetes mellitus (25%), high blood pressure (47.2%), and dyslipidemia (44.4%) was found in the total sample, with no difference between the study groups. Serum calcium and PTH levels positively correlated with BMI (r = .568, P = .011, and r = .509, P = .026 respectively) in non-operated patients. One year after parathyroidectomy, no improvement occurred in the cardiovascular risk factors considered.ConclusionsOur results confirm the high prevalence of obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, and dyslipidemia in patients with asymptomatic PHP. However, parathyroidectomy did not improve these cardiovascular risk factors     

Serum Monocyte Chemokine Protein-1 Levels Before and After Parathyroidectomy in Patients with Primary Hyperparathyroidism

ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of parathyroidectomy on serum monocyte chemokine protein-1 (MCP- 1) levels in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT).MethodsForty-three PHPT patients, age 56 ± 12 years, underwent minimally invasive parathyroidectomy. Serum samples were collected at 0 and 15 to 20 minutes after parathyroid adenoma removal. Serum samples were stored at -70°C until time of assay.ResultsIn 40 PHPT patients with a single adenoma, MCP-1 levels decreased from 342 ± 103 to 250 ± 77 pg/ mL (P < .001) 15 to 20 minutes after parathyroid adenoma removal. MCP-1 levels were positively correlated with intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels (R = 0.47; P < .01). In 3 PHPT patients with double parathyroid adenoma, MCP-1 levels did not decrease after removal of the first adenoma but decreased 15 to 20 minutes after second adenoma removal.ConclusionOur results provide evidence that the decrease in serum intact PTH due to minimally invasive parathyroidectomy results in an immediate decrease in serum MCP-1 levels. (Endocr Pract. 2014;20:1165-1169)     

Calcium,Parathyroid Hormone,and Vitamin D in Patients with Primary Hyperparathyroidism: Normograms Developed from 10000 Cases

ObjectiveTo better define the typical and atypical biochemical profiles of patients with surgically proven primary hyperparathyroidism.MethodsIn this single-center, prospectively conducted study of consecutive patients with surgically proven primary hyperparathyroidism over a 7-year period, we analyzed serum calcium, parathyroid hormone, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations.ResultsA total of 10 000 patients were included, and more than 210 000 calcium, parathyroid hormone, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D values were evaluated. Both calcium and parathyroid hormone levels demonstrated a Gaussian distribution with the average calcium concentration being 10.9 ± 0.6 mg/dL and the average parathyroid hormone concentration being 105.8 ± 48 pg/mL. The average highest calcium and parathyroid hormone concentrations were 11.4 ± 0.7 mg/dL and 115.3 ± 50 pg/mL, respectively. At least 1 calcium value of 11.0 mg/dL was seen in 87% of patients, but only 21% had 1 or more calcium value above 11.5 mg/dL. Only 7% had a single serum calcium level reaching 12.0 mg/dL. Normocalcemic hyperparathyroidism was seen in just under 3% of patients who had identical findings at surgery. An average parathyroid hormone concentration less than 65 pg/mL was seen in 16%, with 10% of patients who had no high parathyroid hormone values. The average 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration was 22.4 ± 9 ng/mL, with levels decreasing as calcium levels increased (P < .001); 36% had 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels below 20 ng/mL.ConclusionsPatients with PHPT present with a number of distinct biochemical profiles, but as a group, they present with a near-normal Gaussian distribution of both calcium and parathyroid hormone levels. Either serum calcium or parathyroid hormone remained normal in 13% of patients, yet the findings at surgery are similar to those of patients with elevated calcium or parathyroid hormone. Low 25-hydroxyvitamin D is an expected finding in patients with PHPT, decreasing as serum calcium levels increase. (Endocr Pract. 2011;17:384-394)     

Improvement in Pancreatic β-Cell Function with Vitamin D and Calcium Supplementation in Vitamin D-Deficient Nondiabetic Subjects

ObjectiveThere are varied reports on the effect of vitamin D supplementation on β-cell function and plasma glucose levels. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of vitamin D and calcium supplementation on β-cell function and plasma glucose levels in subjects with vitamin D deficiency.MethodsNondiabetic subjects (N = 48) were screened for their serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD), albumin, creatinine, calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, and intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) status. Subjects with 25-OHD deficiency underwent a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test. Cholecalciferol (9,570 international units [IU]/day; tolerable upper intake level, 10,000 IU/day; according to the Endocrine Society guidelines for vitamin D supplementation) and calcium (1 g/day) were supplemented.ResultsThirty-seven patients with 25-OHD deficiency participated in the study. The baseline and postvitamin D/calcium supplementation and the difference (corrected) were: serum calcium, 9 ± 0.33 and 8.33 ± 1.09 mg/dL (− 0.66 ± 1.11 mg/dL); 25-OHD, 8.75 ± 4.75 and 36.83 ± 18.68 ng/mL (28.00 ± 18.33 ng/mL); PTH, 57.9 ± 29.3 and 36.33 ± 22.48 pg/mL (− 20.25 ± 22.45 pg/mL); fasting plasma glucose, 78.23 ± 7.60 and 73.47 ± 9.82 mg/dL (− 4.88 ± 10.65 mg/dL); and homeostasis model assessment-2–percent β-cell function C-peptide secretion (HOMA-2–%B C-PEP), 183.17 ± 88.74 and 194.67 ± 54.71 (11.38 ± 94.27). Significant differences were observed between baseline and post-vitamin D/calcium supplementation serum levels of corrected calcium (Z, − 3.751; P < .0001), 25-OHD (Z, − 4.9; P < .0001), intact PTH (Z, − 4.04; P < .0001), fasting plasma glucose (Z, − 2.7; P < .007), and HOMA-2–%B C-PEP (Z, − 1.923; P < .05) as determined by Wilcoxon signed rank test. Insulin resistance as measured by HOMA was unchanged.ConclusionOptimizing serum 25-OHD concentrations and supplementation with calcium improves fasting plasma glucose levels and β-cell secretory reserve. Larger randomized control studies are needed to determine if correction of 25-OHD deficiency will improve insulin secretion and prevent abnormalities of glucose homeostasis. (Endocr Pract. 2014;20:129-138)     

Hiperparatiroidismo secundario en el cáncer de próstata avanzado

Background and ObjectiveHigh parathyroid hormone (PTH) concentrations are associated with increased bone resorption and bone matrix degradation. Some studies show elevated PTH concentrations and hypocalcemia in patients with advanced prostate carcinoma, although the pathophysiological significance of these findings is not well defined.Materials and methodsWe performed a retrospective study of 60 patients diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer (44 nonmetastatic and 16 metastatic) treated with androgen deprivation. In all patients, PTH, calcium, phosphorus, 25 (OH) vitamin D and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) were determined. Bone scintigraphy had previously been performed.ResultsIn patients with bone metastases, mean concentrations were as follows: calcium 9.19 mg/dl, phosphorus 3.47 mg/dl, 25 (OH) vitamin D 13.85 ng/ml, PTH 66.8 pg/ml and total PSA 101.27 ng/ml. For those without bone metastases, the results were calcium 9.39 mg/dl, phosphorus 3.38 mg/dl, 25 (OH) vitamin D 20.50 ng/ml, PTH 52.23 pg/ml and total PSA 2.52 ng/ml. PTH levels were significantly higher in patients with prostate cancer and bone metastases than in those without metastases (p=0.03). Vitamin D levels were also significantly lower in this group (p=0.03). There were no differences in other values.ConclusionsThe present study found increased PTH concentrations in patients with advanced prostate cancer. This finding could be useful to predict disease progression.     

HRPT2- (CDC73) Related Hereditary Hyperparathyroidism: A Case Series From Western India

Objective: To describe a case series of HRPT2- (CDC73) related hereditary primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) from western India.Methods: We present a case series of 4 families (7 patients) with PHPT caused by CDC73 gene mutations.Results: The mean age of presentation of the 4 index cases was 27.25 ± 9.8 years. Two family members were identified through biochemical screening (Cases 1b and 2b), while 1 mutation-positive family member did not manifest any features of PHPT or hyperparathyroidism jaw tumor syndrome (HPT-JT) syndrome (Case 2c). Biochemistry showed increased serum calcium (mean: 13.21 ± 1.24 mg/dL), low serum phosphorus (mean: 1.78 ± 0.44 mg/dL), and high parathyroid hormone (PTH, mean: 936 ± 586.9 pg/mL).All patients had a uniglandular presentation and underwent single adenoma excision initially except Cases 2a and 2b, who underwent subtotal parathyroidectomy at baseline. Two cases experienced PHPT recurrence (Cases 3 and 4), while 1 remained uncured due to parathyroid carcinoma (Case 1a). Other associated syndromic features like ossifying jaw fibromas were present in 2 patients, renal cysts in 3 patients, and uterine involvement in 2 patients. Two families had novel germline CDC73 mutations (Families 1 and 3), while the other 2 had reported mutations. Family 2 had familial isolated PHPT without any other features of HPT-JT syndrome.Conclusion: Our findings reaffirm the need for genetic analysis of patients with PHPT, especially those with younger age of disease onset; recurrent disease; and associated features like polycystic kidneys, endometrial involvement, ossifying jaw tumors, or parathyroid carcinoma.Abbreviations: FIHP = familial isolated hyperparathyroidism HPT-JT = hyperparathyroidism jaw tumor syndrome PHPT = primary hyperparathyroidism PTH = parathyroid hormone ⁹⁹Tc = ⁹⁹Technetium     

Effects of Successful Parathyroidectomy on Metabolic Cardiovascular Risk Factors In Patients With Severe Primary Hyperparathyroidism

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of parathyroidectomy on metabolic abnormalities associated with cardiovascular disease in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT).MethodsThirty-four patients with PHPT (aged 51.0 ± 11.8 years, mean ± standard deviation) underwent assessment before and 1 year after successful parathyroidectomy. A control group of 42 normocalcemic healthy subjects, matched for age and body mass index, was also examined at baseline. We measured serum lipids, glucose, insulin, uric acid, calcium, parathyroid hormone, C-reactive protein, and bone density. Insulin resistance index was evaluated by homeostasis model assessment, and the presence of metabolic syndrome was determined. Because of multiple tests, the level of statistical significance was set at .01.ResultsAfter parathyroidectomy, there was a decrease in diastolic blood pressure (P < .02) and in serum concentrations of uric acid (P < .04) and insulin (P < .009). No difference was observed in rates of metabolic syndrome in patients before and 1 year after parathyroidectomy (23.5% versus 17.6%; P > .46). Insulin resistance index values were also unchanged from before to after parathyroidectomy (1.3 ± 0.9 and 1.1 ± 0.9, respectively; P > .68). A substantial increase in spine bone density (5%; P < .05) was notedpostoperatively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis, after adjustment for age and body mass index, revealed that parathyroidectomy did not lead to a significant decrease in likelihood of cardiovascular risk—odds ratio (OR), 1.82; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.53 to 6.21 (P > .34) for the metabolic syndrome and OR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.17 to 3.88 (P > .8) for the insulin resistance index.ConclusionIn this study, surgical treatment had no beneficial effect on cardiovascular risk, as assessed by the metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance markers in patients with PHPT 1 year after parathyroidectomy.(Endocr Pract. 2011;17:584-590)     

Improvement of Sleep Disturbance and Neurocognitive Function after Parathyroidectomy in Patients with Primary Hyperparathyroidism

ObjectiveTo investigate the frequency of the nontraditional symptoms of sleep disturbance and impaired cognitive functioning in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) and to assess changes in such patients after parathyroidectomy.MethodsIn this study, we used formal neurocognitive assessment of patients undergoing parathyroidectomy for PHPT. The Brief Sleep Disturbance Inventory assessed sleep disturbance, and Stroop tests evaluated for cognitive impairment. Study patients underwent preoperative and postoperative neurocognitive testing.ResultsFifty-five patients underwent neurocognitive evaluation; the 43 women and 12 men had a mean age of 63 years. Sleep disturbance was assessed in all 55 patients, whereas evaluation for cognitive impairment was performed in 47. Sleep disturbance was identified preoperatively in 24 (44%) of the 55 patients. This disorder affected 17 (31%) of 55 patients postoperatively (P < 0.01). Impaired executive functioning was found at baseline in 6 (13%) of 47 patients and decreased to 1 (2%) of 47 postoperatively (P < 0.01), whereas impaired cognitive processing speed was detected in 12 (26%) of 47 patients at baseline and decreased to 3 (6%) of 47 after parathyroidectomy (P < 0.01). Eight patients did not meet the National Institutes of Health consensus statement criteria for parathyroidectomy; 4 of these patients had preoperative impairment of sleep or cognitive functioning, 3 of whom showed improvement postoperatively.ConclusionSleep disturbance and neurocognitive impairment occur in patients with PHPT, and these disorders improve after parathyroidectomy. Further objective evaluation of nontraditional symptoms in patients diagnosed as having PHPT is warranted. (Endocr Pract. 2007;13:338-344)     

KDIGO Categories of Glomerular Filtration Rate and Parathyroid Hormone Secretion in Primary Hyperparathyroidism

Objective: The recent Fourth Workshop on the Management of Asymptomatic primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) maintained the threshold of 60 mL/min for decreased renal function, below which surgery is recommended. This study investigated the relationship between different stages of renal insufficiency and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels in an updated case series of PHPT patients.Methods: This was a retrospective, cross-sectional study involving 379 consecutive PHPT patients. Biochemical evaluation included total and ionized serum calcium, phosphate, creatinine, immunoreactive intact PTH, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃ (25[OH]D₃) levels in the fasting state. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was estimated using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation.Results: Mean CKD-EPI estimated GFR was 81.9 ± 20.3 mL/min/1.73 m², and median GFR was 84.0 mL/min/1.73 m² (interquartile range, 26.8 mL/min/1.73 m²). The patients were divided into 5 groups according to the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes 2012 guidelines: group 1 with normal or increased GFR (>90 mL/min/1.73 m²); group 2 with mild GFR decrease (60 to 89 mL/min/1.73 m²); group 3a with mild to moderate GFR decrease (45 to 59 mL/min/1.73 m²); group 3b with moderate to severe GFR decrease (30 to 44 mL/min/1.73 m²); and group 4 with severe GFR decrease (<30 mL/min/1.73 m²). Among the 5 groups of patients, serum calcium levels were different (P = .025), whereas 25(OH)D₃ levels were not (P = .36). PTH levels were comparable across groups 1 through 3a, but they were significantly higher in groups 3b and 4 (P<.0001).Conclusion: In our series of PHPT patients, PTH levels did not rise as a result of renal impairment until GFR decreased below 45 mL/min/1.73 m².Abbreviations: 25(OH)D₃ = 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃ CKD-EPI = Chronic Kidney Disease-Epidemiology Collaboration GFR = glomerular filtration rate K/DOQI = National Kidney Foundation Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative KDIGO = Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes MDRD = Modification of Diet in Renal Disease PHPT = primary hyperparathyroidism PTH = parathyroid hormone     

Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Deficiency; A Risk Factor for Chronic Kidney Disease in Ambulatory Indigent Patients

ObjectiveTo assess whether 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) deficiency is a risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD) in ambulatory indigent patients.MethodsData for all serum 25(OH)D concentrations measured during 2010 in our ambulatory nondialysis-dependent patients were analyzed along with CKD-related parameters. Patients were stratified into groups based on 25(OH)D levels of < 10, 10 to 19, 20 to 29, and ≥ 30 ng/mL. CKD was defined by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; Chronic Kidney Disease-Epidemiology Collaboration [CKD-EPI] equation) and abnormal urine protein to creatinine ratios. CKD-associated parameters included serum parathyroid hormone (PTH), 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25[OH]₂D), alkaline phosphatase, albumin, corrected calcium, and total CO₂ levels.ResultsA total of 2,811 patients had 25(OH)D levels measured. Patients with 25(OH)D levels < 10 ng/mL had significantly increased relative risk (RR) of an eGFR < 15 mL/min/1.73 m² (RR, 4.0), an eGFR of 15 to 29 mL/min/1.73 m² (RR, 2.6), urine protein to creatinine ratio > 3.5 g/g (RR, 5.6), and serum PTH > 100 pg/mL (RR, 2.8) compared to patients with a 25(OH)D level ≥ 30 ng/mL. Patients with 25(OH)D levels of 10 to19 ng/mL had significantly increased RR of a urine protein to creatinine ratio > 3.5 g/g (RR,4.8) and serum PTH > 100 pg/mL (RR, 1.5) compared to patients with 25(OH)D levels ≥ 30 ng/mL.Conclusion25(OH)D deficiency (< 10 ng/mL) was associated with reduced eGFR, nephrotic-range proteinuria, and increased PTH levels in our population of ambulatory urban indigent patients. (Endocr Pract. 2014;20:236-243)     

Does Baseline PTH Influence Recovery of Bone Mineral Density,Trabecular Bone Score and Bone Turnover Markers? A Prospective Study Following Curative PArathyroidectomy in Primary Hyperparathyroidism

Objective: This prospective study was carried out to assess trabecular bone score, bone mineral density (BMD), and bone biochemistry in Indian subjects with symptomatic primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT), and to study the influence of baseline parathyroid hormone (PTH) on recovery of these parameters following curative surgery.Methods: This was a 2-year prospective study conducted at a tertiary care centre in southern India. Baseline assessment included demographic details, mode of presentation, bone mineral biochemistry, BMD, trabecular bone score (TBS), and bone turnover markers (BTMs). These parameters were reassessed at the end of the first and second years following curative parathyroid surgery.Results: Fifty-one subjects (32 men and 19 women) with PHPT who had undergone curative parathyroidectomy were included in this study. The mean (SD) age was 44.6 (13.7) years. The TBS, BTMs, and BMD at lumbar spine and forearm were significantly worse at baseline in subjects with higher baseline PTH (≥250 pg/mL) when compared to the group with lower baseline PTH (<250 pg/mL). At the end of 2 years, the difference between high versus low PTH groups (mean ± SD) persisted only for forearm BMD (0.638 ± 0.093 versus 0.698 ± 0.041 g/cm²; P =.01). However, on follow-up visits in the first and second year after curative parathyroidectomy, there was no significant difference in BTMs, BMD at the femoral neck, lumbar spine, and TBS between the 2 groups stratified by baseline PTH.Conclusion: The BMD at the forearm remained significantly worse in individuals with high baseline PTH even at 2 years after surgery, while other parameters including TBS improved significantly from baseline.Abbreviations: 25(OH)D = 25-hydroxyvitamin D; BMD = bone mineral density; BMI = body mass index; BTMs = Bone turnover markers; CTX = C-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen; DXA = dual energy X-ray absorptiometry; P1NP = N-terminal propeptide of type 1 procollagen; PHPT = primary hyperparathyroidism; PTH = parathyroid hormone; TBS = trabecular bone score     

Primary Hyperparathyroidism During Pregnancy: A Case Series of 8 Patients

Objective: Due to a lack of typical clinical manifestations and physiologic changes in calcium metabolism during pregnancy, primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) during pregnancy is commonly underdiagnosed, and treatment during this unique period presents a clinical challenge. Hence, the aim of the present study was to summarize the cases of 8 pregnant patients with PHPT who were treated at our center to provide better clinical insight into this condition.Methods: Our study comprised a retrospective analysis of 8 pregnant PHPT patients and a control group of 22 age-matched, nonpregnant PHPT patients during the same period. Clinical manifestations, biochemical indices, pathologic types, therapeutic strategies, and pregnancy outcomes were compiled, and 25 patients were screened for germline mutations in the MEN1, CDC73, and CaSR genes.Results: The most-common symptoms in the pregnancy group involved the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) in 7/8 cases (87.5%), followed by urinary system involvement (50%) and joint pain (50%). In contrast, GIT symptoms in the control group were significantly less common (31.82%; P = .012). There was a trend of more-severe elevation of serum parathyroid hormone levels in the control group compared to that in the pregnancy group (P = .053). No differences were found in blood-ionized calcium, phosphate, or alkaline phosphatase levels between the two groups. In the pregnancy group, the serum albumin-corrected calcium level was reduced from 3.42 ± 0.66 mmol/L to 2.89 ± 0.46 mmol/L (P = .025) after hydration and medical treatment. Six patients, three of whom were in the second trimester of pregnancy, underwent parathyroidectomy, and 3 patients were after childbirth or had induced labor. Postoperative serum calcium levels were reduced to within the normal range. Fetal/neonatal complications were observed in 4 of 5 patients who had not received surgical treatment during pregnancy. In addition, 2 of 5 pregnant PHPT patients were found to carry MEN1 mutations, whereas no mutations were detected in any of the 20 nonpregnant patients.Conclusion: In this case series of PHPT during pregnancy, the most-common complaint of GIT symptoms may be easily confused with pregnancy reactions, which might contribute to the under- or misdiagnosis of this clinical entity. Patients who did not receive surgical treatment during pregnancy had high incidences of fetal/neonatal complications and worse pregnancy outcomes.Abbreviations: CaSR = calcium-sensing receptor; CDC73 = cell division cycle 73; GIT = gastrointestinal tract; MEN = multiple endocrine neoplasia; PHPT = primary hyperparathyroidism; PTH = parathyroid hormone; SCa = serum calcium     

Baseline and 1-year follow-up differences between hip-fracture patients admitted from nursing homes and the community. A cohort study on 509 consecutive patients (FONDA Cohort)

ObjectiveTo determine the clinical and functional differences at hospital admission and at 1 year after a hip fracture (HF) in nursing homes (NH) and community-dwelling (CD) patients.MethodsAll patients with HF admitted to the orthogeriatric unit at a university hospital between January 2013 and February 2014 were prospectively included. Clinical and functional variables, and mortality were recorded during the hospital admission. The patients were contacted by telephone at 1 year to determine their vital condition and functional status.ResultsA total of 509 patients were included, 116 (22.8%) of whom came from NH. Compared with the CD patients, the NH patients had higher surgical risk (ASA ≥3: 83.6% vs. 66.4%, P < .001), poorer theoretical vital prognosis (Nottingham Profile ≥5: 98.3% vs. 56.6%, P< .001), higher rate of previous functional status (median Barthel index: 55 [IQR, 36-80] vs. 90 [IQR, 75-100], P< .001), poorer mental status (Pfeiffer's SPMSQ >2: 74.1% vs. 40.2%, P< .001), and a higher rate of sarcopenia (24.3% vs. 15.2%, P< .05). There were no differences in in-hospital or at 1-year mortality. At 1 year, NH patients recovered their previous walking capacity at a lower rate (38.5% vs. 56.2%, P< .001).ConclusionsAmong the patients with HF treated in an orthogeriatric unit, NH patients had higher, surgical risk, functional and mental impairment, and a higher rate of sarcopenia than CD patients. At 1 year of follow-up, NH patients did not have higher mortality, but they recovered their previous capacity for walking less frequently.     

Social Deprivation and Primary Hyperparathyroidism

ObjectiveTo investigate the potential relationship between social status or deprivation and the prevalence of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT).MethodsWe retrospectively identified a cohort of patients diagnosed as having PHPT between 1981 and 2007 from the Scottish Morbidity Records database. The Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD) 2006 quintiles were derived for these patients by using the postal codes. The distribution of the SIMD quintiles was examined to determine the possible influence of deprivation on the incidence of PHPT.ResultsIn Scotland between 1981 and 2007, 3, 039 patients were diagnosed as having PHPT, in accordance with the International Classification of Diseases code for PHPT. The distribution of the PHPT cohort across the SIMD 2006 quintiles was significantly different from that expected, with a higher representation (27.2%) among the most deprived and a lower representation (14.5%) in the least deprived quintile, in comparison with the 20% expected in each quintile (P < .0001).ConclusionThe findings in this study suggest that socioeconomic deprivation is associated with an increased risk of developing PHPT. (Endocr Pract. 2010;16:982-985)     

Low Free (But Not Total) 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Levels in Subjects with Normocalcemic Hyperparathyroidism

Objective: Normocalcemic primary hyperparathyroidism (NPHPT) is characterized by elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels with persistently normal calcium levels. The diagnosis of NPHPT assumes the absence of secondary causes of elevated PTH levels. The objective of the current study was to examine levels of free 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25&lsqb;OH]D) in NPHPT subjects and healthy controls.Methods: Ten NPHPT subjects and 20 controls who were age, sex, race, and body mass index (BMI) matched were examined. The diagnosis of NPHPT was made if subjects had (1) a serum calcium level of 8.6 to 10.4 mg/dL, total 25(OH)D 30 to 40 ng/mL, and intact PTH (iPTH) ≥66 pg/mL; and (2) normal renal and liver function. Serum total 25(OH)D levels were measured by radioimmunoassay, and free 25(OH)D levels were determined using an enzyme-linked immunoassay.Results: Mean age of NPHPT subjects was 59.9 ± 5.4 years, and mean BMI was 28.4 ± 2.3 kg/m², which was not significantly different from the mean age and BMI of the control subjects. Mean total 25(OH)D level was 31.9 ± 1.7 ng/mL in NPHPT subjects and did not differ from that of the controls (32.7 ± 3.3 ng/mL; P = .52). However, mean free 25(OH)D was 5.0 ± 0.9 pg/mL in NPHPT subjects, which was 20% lower compared to the mean of the controls (6.2 ± 1.3 pg/mL; P = .013). Serum iPTH levels were inversely correlated with levels of measured free 25(OH)D (r = -0.42; P<.05) but did not correlate with levels of total 25(OH)D (r = -0.14; P>.10).Conclusion: Measured free 25(OH)D levels are lower in NPHPT subjects than in healthy control subjects. We suggest that some NPHPT subjects may actually have secondary hyperparathyroidism based on their free 25(OH) D levels.Abbreviations: 25(OH)D = 25-hydroxyvitamin D; BMI = body mass index; CV = coefficient of variation; DBP = vitamin D–binding protein; iPTH = intact parathyroid hormone; NPHPT = normocalcemic primary hyperparathyroidism     

Relationship of lead and essential elements in whole blood from school-age children in Nanning,China

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to investigate blood lead level and its relationship to essential elements (zinc, copper, iron, calcium and magnesium) in school-age children from Nanning, China.MethodsA total of 2457 children aged from 6 to 14 years were enrolled in Nanning, China. The levels of lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) were determined by an atomic absorption spectrometer.ResultsThe mean blood lead level (BLL) was 57.21 ± 35.00 μg/L. 188 (7.65%) asymptomatic children had toxic lead level higher than 100 μg/L. The school-age boys had similar lead level among different age groups, while the elder girls had less BLL. The blood Zn and Fe were found to be increased in the boys with elevated BLL, but similar trends were not observed in the girls. Positive correlations between Pb and Fe or Mg (r = 0.112, 0.062, respectively, p < 0.01) and a negative correlation between Pb and Ca (r = −0.047, p < 0.05) were further established in the studied children.ConclusionsLead exposure in school-age children was still prevalent in Nanning. The boys and girls differed in blood levels of lead and other metallic elements. Lead exposure may induce metabolic disorder of other metallic elements in body.     

La concentration plasmatique de PTH permet-elle de sélectionner les patients atteints d’hyperparathyroïdie secondaire pour bénéficier de la scintigraphie double isotope MIBI (99mTc)/123I préopératoire ?

The utility of preoperative scintigraphy in case of secondary hyperparathyroidism is questioned by some authors. Obviously, an imaging modality that will detect all hyperplastic glands, including the ectopic ones, would be of interest in those patients at high risk for surgery. However, scintigraphy has a limited detection rate in some patients. We investigated whether one of the following parameters would identify a subgroup of patients in whom the detection rate would be optimal: age, gender, hemodialysis and duration since its onset, and plasma levels of parathyrin (PTH).MethodsRetrospective series of 38 patients referred for preoperative parathyroid scintigraphy due to secondary hyperparathyroidism who then underwent parathyroidectomy. Scintigraphy was performed 20 min and then 3 h after injection of 8 MBq/kg of sestamibi (^99mTc) with a previous ingestion of 0.1 MBq/kg iodine-123, 3 h before.ResultNo significant correlation was observed between the number of glands detected on scintigraphy (and confirmed by postoperative histology) and plasma PTH levels (r = ?0.17). A weak positive correlation (r = +0.34) was noted in the group of six non-hemodialysed patients. No significant relationship between this number of detected glands and a clinical parameter was observed.ConclusionIn our experience, these parameters do not permit to select, among patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism and scheduled for parathyroidectomy, those who will better benefit from parathyroid scintigraphy.     

A new, vitamin D-based, multidimensional nomogram for the diagnosis of primary hyperparathyroidism

ObjectiveTo refine the diagnostic criteria for primary hyperparathyroidism (1°HPT) to identify atypical patients, in whom serum calcium, parathyroid hormone (PTH), or both are within the “normal” range.MethodsTotal serum calcium, intact PTH, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels were measured in patients with 1°HPT and healthy patient groups. Multivariate analysis of healthy patient data first identified factors that significantly affected PTH levels and defined a new PTH reference range with a mathematical model. That nomogram was then validated for prediction of atypical 1°HPT in patients with surgically confirmed disease.ResultsOn multivariate analysis, calcium (P = .0002), 25(OH)D (P < .0001), and age (P = .015) independently affected PTH. With these variables, we created a 4-dimensional nomogram that distinguished normal patients from those with hyperparathyroid states. Mathematically, this nomogram predicts 1°HPT when the measured serum PTH value is higher than PTH calculated by the following formula: PTH (pg/mL) = 120-[6 × calcium (mg/dL)]-[0.52 × 25(OH)D (ng/mL)] + [0.26 × patient age (years)]. When applied to our surgical group of patients, this nomogram successfully identified 100% of patients (238 of 238) with classic 1°HPT, 84% (64 of 76) with normocalcemic 1°HPT, and 54% (20 of 37) with 1°HPT and normal PTH.ConclusionThis study uniquely defines a patientspecific upper limit of normal for PTH based on the readily available variables of serum calcium, 25(OH)D, and patient age. Our nomogram may allow for more rapid definitive diagnosis and treatment of 1°HPT in patients with atypical presentations. (Endocr Pract. 2012;18:124-131)