Parathyroid adenoma is a benign tumor that can cause excess parathyroid hormone, often leading to fatigue, kidney stones, and bone pain. At Grant Thyroid Surgery, Dr. David Grant—a fellowship-trained head and neck surgeon—offers expert evaluation and treatment to restore balance and relieve symptoms with compassionate, personalized care.
What is Parathyroid Adenoma?
Parathyroid adenoma is a non-cancerous tumor of one of the parathyroid glands that causes it to become overactive. This condition leads to the excessive production of parathyroid hormone (PTH), resulting in elevated calcium levels in the blood—a condition known as hypercalcemia. The overproduction of PTH disrupts the body’s calcium regulation, often without clear symptoms at first. However, if left untreated, it can gradually cause issues with bone, kidney, and gastrointestinal health. Prompt evaluation and management are essential.
Signs & Symptoms of Parathyroid Adenoma:
- Feeling tired or weak without a clear reason
- Frequent headaches or difficulty concentrating
- Developing kidney stones or urinary tract issues
- Bone pain or increased fracture risk
- Abdominal discomfort, nausea, or constipation
- Feeling irritable, anxious, or depressed
- Experiencing muscle weakness or joint aches
- Increased thirst and frequent urination
If Left Untreated:
If parathyroid adenoma is left untreated, the persistent overproduction of parathyroid hormone can lead to serious health complications. Elevated calcium levels may cause progressive bone loss, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Kidney stones may also develop more frequently, and long-term kidney damage can occur. Early diagnosis and expert surgical care can help prevent these long-term effects and restore calcium balance.
Possible Causes of Parathyroid Adenoma
Parathyroid adenoma occurs when one or more of the parathyroid glands develop a benign growth that leads to excessive production of parathyroid hormone (PTH). This overproduction disrupts the body’s calcium balance and can lead to hypercalcemia. While the exact cause is often unknown, several factors may contribute to its development, including:
- A genetic mutation in the cells of the parathyroid gland
- A history of radiation exposure to the head or neck
- Inherited conditions such as Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN)
- Advancing age and increased risk with age-related cellular changes
- Chronic vitamin D deficiency affecting calcium regulation
How is Parathyroid Adenoma Diagnosed?
To diagnose parathyroid adenoma, your doctor will begin by evaluating your symptoms and reviewing your medical history. Blood tests are typically ordered to measure your calcium and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels. If both are elevated, imaging studies such as ultrasound or a sestamibi scan may be used to locate the overactive gland. In some cases, additional imaging, like a 4D CT scan, may be recommended. A thorough evaluation ensures the most accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan tailored to you.
Your Personalized Parathyroid Adenoma Treatment
At Grant Thyroid Surgery, your treatment plan for parathyroid adenoma is thoughtfully tailored by Dr. Grant, a fellowship-trained head and neck surgeon with experience in parathyroid care. After confirming your diagnosis, Dr. Grant considers your symptoms, health, and diagnostic findings to determine the most effective approach. Whether surgery is recommended or monitoring is more appropriate, you’ll receive expert guidance and compassionate care.
Schedule Your Consultation
With Dr. Grant
Dr. David Grant is a board-certified head and neck surgeon with fellowship training in parathyroid and thyroid surgery. At Grant Thyroid Surgery, we offer world-class surgical expertise in a refined setting while coordinating every aspect of your care—from diagnosis to recovery. If you’re experiencing symptoms of parathyroid adenoma, trust Dr. Grant to provide precise, compassionate care—schedule your consultation today.
