Secondary parathyromatosis in a patient with normal kidney function: review of diagnostic modalities and approaches to management

Abstract

Objective: To present a patient with secondary parathyromatosis, a rare complication of parathyroidectomy, and to discuss issues currently pertinent to its diagnosis and management.

Methods: Data were derived from clinical and pathologic observations obtained during patient care.

Results: The index patient developed intractable hyperparathyroidism and hypercalcemia that has persisted after 4 surgical procedures and has remained largely resistant to medication, albeit with partial amelioration with combined bisphosphonate and cinacalcet.

Conclusion: Despite the rarity of this difficult complication of parathyroidectomy, its iatrogenic basis emphasizes a need for heightened awareness and caution among surgeons and endocrinologists. Herein we report an instance of intractable secondary parathyromatosis in a patient with normal kidney function, and we review current approaches to diagnosis and management.