INFORMATION ON PARATHYROID CANCER

Parathyroid cancer is a disease in which cancer (malignant) cells are found in the tissues of the parathyroid gland. The parathyroid gland is present at the base of the neck, near the thyroid gland. These glands make a hormone called parathyroid hormone or parathormone, which helps the body store and use calcium.


SYMPTOMS OF PARATHYROID CANCER

Patients with parathyroid cancer may experience the following symptoms:
   - Loss of appetite
   - Thirst
   - Frequent urination
   - Fatigue
   - Muscle weakness
   - Joint pain
   - Constipation
   - Nausea and vomiting
   - Indigestion
   - Abdominal pain
   - Depression
   - Significantly elevated calcium levels
   - Severe bone disease
   - Severe kidney disease, multiple stones
   - Lump in the neck
   - Difficulty swallowing or breathing
   - Hoarseness


CAUSES OF PARATHYROID CANCER

If parathyroid cancer is found, the parathyroid gland may be making too much PTH which causes too much calcium to be found in the blood. The extra PTH also takes calcium from the bones, which causes pain in the bones, kidney problems, and other types of problems.A rare inherited disorder of the parathyroid called familial isolated hyperparathyroidism and endocrine glands called multiple endocrine neoplasia 1 may increase the risk of developing parathyroid cancer.

DIAGNOSIS OF PARATHYROID CANCER
Blood test may be performed.

TREATMENT OF PARATHYROID CANCER

Three kinds of treatment are used for the treatment of parathyroid cancer.

1. Surgery - Surgery is the most effective treatment for parathyroid cancer.Parathyroid gland (parathyroidectomy) and the half of the thyroid on the same side as the cancer may be removed by surgery. Nearby muscles, tissues and nerves may also be removed to prevent the cancer from spreading.

2. Radiotherapy - High-energy x-rays radiations are used to kill cancer cells and shrink
tumors.

3. Chemotherapy - Drugs may be used to kill cancer cells.