Parathyroid carcinoma: case report

Abstract

Parathyroid carcinoma (PC) is an uncommon pathology which has propaedeutic and therapeutic peculiarities. In general, it presents as symptomatic primary hyperparathyroidism, that corresponds to only 1% in this subgroup. Both the clinical and histological diagnosis of PC are difficult due to inconsistent criteria. Laboratorial exams commonly present hypercalcemia and PTH well-above the reference value. Surgery is the only curative and effective treatment for parathyroid carcinoma. Case report: Patient M.P.R.L., 48 years old, female, melanodermic, native and from Felisburgo - MG. The disease had been progressing for 2 years with progressive weakness, anemia, renal dysfunction, chronic pain and weight loss (about 15 kg in last five months), associated with PTH-dependent hypercalcemia and renal function decline. A cervical study showed the presence of two thyroid nodules whereas a parathyroid scintigraphy showed no evidence of glands hyperplasia or adenoma. She was admitted to the Santa Casa Hospital of Belo Horizonte for a propaedeutic and therapeutic management of the presented profile.