Your parathyroid glands, four very small glands located near or at the back of the thyroid gland, produce parathyroid hormone (PTH). This hormone helps control the amount of calcium and phosphorus in your blood.

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A parathyroid adenoma is a benign tumor on one of these glands. This causes your calcium and phosphorus balance to be disrupted, as the affected gland releases more PTH than it should. This condition is called hyperparathyroidism.

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Symptoms of Parathyroid Adenoma

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There is a good chance that you will not experience any symptoms if you have this condition. Many people find out they have one of these tumors during a blood test for another problem. These tumors can lead to hyperparathyroidism. The hyperparathyroidism associated with these tumors can cause issues with your bones since your calcium levels are affected. Your bones might be fragile, brittle or painful. You may experience fractures.

 

In addition to these symptoms, you may have more general symptoms:

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• mental changes such as depression, lethargy, or confusion

• nausea

• vomiting

• pain in your muscles or abdomen

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Diagnosis

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Because these tumors cause your body to produce too much PTH, your doctor will check your blood levels for this hormone. If they are elevated, your doctor may consider this condition.

 

Treatment

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Treatment typically involves a surgical removal of the tumor.