Hypoparathyroidism

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Endocrine glands

The goal of treatment is to restore the calcium and mineral balance in the body.

Oral calcium carbonate and vitamin D supplements are usually lifelong therapy. Blood levels are measured regularly to make sure that the dose is correct. A high-calcium, low-phosphorous diet is recommended.

In the event of a life-threatening attack of low calcium levels or tetany (prolonged muscle contractions), calcium is administered by intravenous (IV) infusion. Precautions are taken to prevent seizures or larynx spasms. The heart is monitored for abnormal rhythms until the person is stable. When the life-threatening attack has been controlled, treatment continues with medicine taken by mouth.

The outcome is likely to be good if the diagnosis is made early. However, changes in the teeth, the development of cataracts, and brain calcifications are irreversible.

• Tetany can lead to a blocked airway, requiring a tracheostomy.
• Stunted growth, malformed teeth, and slow mental development can occur if hypoparathyroidism develops in childhood.
• Overtreatment with vitamin D and calcium can cause hypercalcemia (high blood calcium) and sometimes interfere with kidney function.
• There is an increased risk of pernicious anemia, Addison's disease, cataract development, and Parkinson's disease.

Call your health care provider if you develop any symptoms of hypoparathyroidism.

Seizures or difficulty breathing are an emergency. Call 911 immediately.

Review Date: 10/25/2006
Reviewed By: Robert Hurd, M.D., Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.