Hyperparathyroidism

Also Known As – Parathyroid hyperplasia – Parahyroid adenoma - Fibrous Osteodystrophy – Grain Overload – Bran Disease – Bran-head Disease

Introduction

Hyperparathyroidism is an endocrine disease caused by overactivity of the parathyroid gland and consequent raised body levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH). It occurs in many veterinary species and can be primary or secondary.

Primary hyperparathyroidism originates within the parathyroid gland itself and can be due to glandular hyperplasia or neoplasia. It is most commonly due to a solitary benign adenoma of either the internal or external parathyroid gland.

Clinical Signs

The main effect of hyperparathyroidism is hypercalcaemia which causes a range of clinical signs. Polydipsia, polyuria, anorexia, lethargy and depression are the most common signs but animals may also be constipated, weak, stiff-gaited, shivering and vomiting. Mild hypercalcaemia may not generate any overt clinical signs.

Diagnosis

Electrolyte imbalances on blood biochemistry profiles are highly suggestive. Hypercalcaemia with a normal to low serum phosphorus and a low urine specific gravity are fairly consistent findings.

Serum PTH levels may be useful in diagnosing primary hyperparathyroidism, but only in animals with normal renal function, i,e, those with normal creatinine and blood urea nitrogen.

Exploratory surgery of the cervical region may identify enlarged parathyroid glands if no other test is available or confirmatory.

Treatment

Treatment for primary hyperaparathyroidism usually required surgical excision.

Control

Hyperparathyroidism Learning Resources
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References

Lavoie, J-P., Hinchcliff, K. W (2008) Blackwell’s Five-Minute Veterinary Consult: Equine 2nd ed. Wiley-Blackwell, Oxford, pp.

Haskell, S (2008) Blackwell’s Five-Minute Veterinary Consult:Ruminant. Wiley-Blackwell, Oxford, pp. [[Category:]]