What is parathyroid cancer?
Parathyroid cancer is a rare type of cancer that affects the parathyroid glands, which are responsible for regulating calcium levels in the body. While parathyroid adenoma is a benign tumor causing overproduction of parathyroid hormone (PTH), parathyroid cancer is associated with the uncontrolled growth and spread of cancerous cells.
What are the types of parathyroid cancer?
Parathyroid cancer manifests in two types: one characterized by excessive PTH production, elevating blood calcium levels, and the other, non-functioning parathyroid carcinoma, where PTH and calcium levels remain normal. The latter is rare, accounting for less than 10% of cases.
Following diagnosis, further tests determine cancer localization, metastasis, or recurrence. Parathyroid cancer does not typically employ the four-stage naming convention common in other cancers.
What causes parathyroid cancer?
The exact cause of parathyroid cancer is not always clear, although certain factors may increase the risk of developing this rare cancer, including:
- In some cases, parathyroid cancer may be associated with inherited genetic mutations, such as multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) or hyperparathyroidism-jaw tumor syndrome (HPT-JT).
- Previous radiation therapy to the head, neck, or chest area may increase the risk of developing parathyroid cancer.
- Parathyroid cancer is more common in older adults, particularly those over the age of 50, and tends to affect women slightly more often than men.
- A family history of parathyroid disorders or certain genetic syndromes, such as MEN1 or HPT-JT, may predispose individuals to develop parathyroid cancer.
What are symptoms of parathyroid cancer?
Parathyroid cancer can present itself with various symptoms, although some individuals may not experience any noticeable signs initially.
Common symptoms include:
- Elevated calcium levels in the blood, resulting in symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting, increased thirst and urination, and bone pain.
- High levels of calcium in the bloodstream can increase the risk of developing kidney stones or lead to kidney damage over time.
- Parathyroid cancer can cause the bones to weaken due to excessive calcium loss, leading to bone pain, tenderness, or an increased risk of fractures.
- Some individuals with parathyroid cancer may experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, constipation, or loss of appetite.
How is parathyroid cancer treated?
Parathyroid cancer treatment typically involves surgical removal of the affected parathyroid gland(s) and surrounding tissues, known as en bloc resection. This extensive surgery aims to remove all cancerous tissue and reduce the risk of recurrence. In some cases, additional treatments such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be recommended to target any remaining cancer cells or manage symptoms.