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 high calcium levels reducing neuromuscular excitability 1
- The incidence of peptic ulcer disease (PUD) in patients with hyperparathyroidism is higher than in the general population, with a reported incidence of 9% compared to autopsy rates of 4-5% 1
- Pancreatitis is also a common complication of hyperparathyroidism, with an incidence ranging from 1.5% to 12% 1
- Gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting are common in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT), with a reported incidence of 18.67% 2
- Hyperparathyroidism can also cause steatorrhea in hypoparathyroidism, and constipation, PUD, and pancreatitis in hyperparathyroidism 1
Gastrointestinal Manifestations of Hyperparathyroidism
The gastrointestinal manifestations of hyperparathyroidism can vary depending on the severity of the disease and the individual patient. Some common gastrointestinal manifestations include:
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pancreatitis
- Gallstone disease
- Cholecystectomy These symptoms can be caused by the high levels of calcium in the blood, which can reduce neuromuscular excitability and cause constipation, as well as increase the risk of pancreatitis and gallstone disease 1, 3
Effect of Parathyroid Surgery on Gastrointestinal Manifestations
Parathyroid surgery can have a significant impact on the gastrointestinal manifestations of hyperparathyroidism. Studies have shown that:
- Gastrointestinal symptoms can resolve within three months of curative parathyroidectomy 3
- The risk of pancreatitis can be reduced after parathyroid surgery, with only two patients experiencing recurrence of pancreatitis in one study 3
- Parathyroid surgery can also improve symptoms such as abdominal pain, constipation, and nausea and vomiting 3
Biochemical Parameters and Gastrointestinal Manifestations
The relationship between biochemical parameters such as serum calcium, phosphate, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels and gastrointestinal manifestations is complex. Studies have shown that:
- Serum calcium levels can be associated with a higher risk of developing pancreatitis 3
- There is no significant difference in biochemical profile between patients with and without gastrointestinal symptoms 3
- The prevalence of gallstone disease is higher in women, while pancreatitis is more common in men 3