Parathyroid-associated emergencies: a narrative review

Abstract

Emergency medical care related to the parathyroid gland encompasses a wide range of diseases, the common denominator of which is disorders of calcium metabolism. The parathyroid gland plays a critical role in regulating calcium levels in the body, and any dysfunction of this small gland can have a significant impact on calcium homeostasis and, therefore, bone health. One of the most common conditions associated with the parathyroid gland is hypoparathyroidism. This disease is characterized by a decreased production of parathyroid hormone, leading to abnormally low levels of calcium in the blood. Hypoparathyroidism can have varied and complex clinical presentations, with symptoms ranging from seizures to dermatological problems such as psoriasis, to cardiac and neuromuscular complications such as arrhythmias, laryngospasms, cataracts, papilledema, tetany and myopathies, among others. Knowledge of these disorders is necessary to provide effective medical care and improve the quality of life of sick patients. Therefore, it is necessary to clarify that parathyroid emergencies represent a wide range of disorders that affect calcium homeostasis and bone health, of which hypoparathyroidism is an excellent example. Treatment of these disorders varies according to cause and severity, and knowledge of them is essential for clinicians in various specialties and clinical settings, as their impact extends to critical areas of health care.