From the Research
Relationship between Elevated Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) and Gastrointestinal Issues
The relationship between elevated Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) and gastrointestinal issues is complex and has been studied in various research papers. Some of the key findings include:
- Hyperparathyroidism can cause constipation due to reduction in neuromuscular excitability by high calcium levels 1
- The incidence of peptic ulcer disease (PUD) in patients with hyperparathyroidism is 9% compared with autopsy rates of 4% to 5% 1
- Hyperparathyroidism can also cause pancreatitis, with an incidence ranging from 1.5% to 12% 1
- Gastrointestinal symptoms are common in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT), with abdominal pain, constipation, and nausea/or vomiting being the most common manifestations 2
- The prevalence of gallstone disease is higher in women with PHPT, while pancreatitis is more common in men 2
Hypercalcemia-Related Symptoms
Hypercalcemia-related symptoms are also an important aspect of the relationship between elevated PTH and gastrointestinal issues. Some of the key findings include:
- Hypercalcemia can cause smooth-muscle atony, leading to upper and lower gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, heartburn, and constipation 3
- Acute pancreatitis due to primary hyperparathyroidism is one of the most studied topics, with the causative effect of high calcium level being confirmed 3
- The distinction between primary and secondary hyperparathyroidism is mandatory in the diagnosis of hypercalcemia-related symptoms 4
Effect of Parathyroid Surgery on Gastrointestinal Manifestations
The effect of parathyroid surgery on gastrointestinal manifestations has also been studied. Some of the key findings include: