How is Normocalcemic primary hyperparathyroidism treated?

The treatment of choice in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism is parathyroidectomy. Patients with normocalcemic hyperparathyroidism also benefit from removal of the parathyroid glands.

How is primary hyperparathyroidism treated in dogs?

Three treatment modalities are available for PHPT in dogs: surgery, percutaneous ultrasonography-guided ethanol ablation (with 96% ethanol), and percutaneous ultrasonography-guided radiofrequency heat ablation. If surgical treatment is sought, complete cervical exploratory surgery of the thyroid area is recommended.

What causes primary hyperparathyroidism dogs?

Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is a rarely diagnosed disease of older dogs and is caused by overproduction of parathyroid hormone by the parathyroid glands that are located in the neck.

What medication is used to treat primary hyperparathyroidism?

This drug is sold as cinacalcet (Sensipar). Some doctors may prescribe cinacalcet to treat primary hyperparathyroidism, particularly if surgery hasn’t successfully cured the disorder or a person isn’t a good surgery candidate.

What are symptoms of hyperparathyroidism in dogs?

Dogs with hyperparathyroidism will usually exhibit a gradual onset of a variety of symptoms associated with excessive levels of calcium in the bloodstream:

• Increased thirst and urination and/or abnormal urination.
• Weakness, stiffness, decreased muscle mass and/or lethargy.
• Inappetance, nausea, vomiting and/or constipation.

How is primary hyperparathyroidism diagnosed in dogs?

Diagnosis is usually achieved by finding high calcium levels in the blood and correlating this finding with the medical history, other blood tests, X-rays, urinalysis, EKG and an ultrasound of the neck to check for a mass on one of the four parathyroid glands.

Can hyperparathyroidism make you gain weight?

Parathyroid disease and hyperparathyroidism are associated with weight gain. The worries about gaining weight after parathyroid surgery are understandable but unfounded. It is a myth that parathyroid surgery and removing a parathyroid tumor causes you to gain weight.