A Treatable but Commonly Missed Etiology;An Unusual Presentation of Primary Hyperparathyroidism as Acute on Chronic Recurrent Pancreatitis- A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Acute pancreatitis is an identified, but uncommon presentation of Primary hyperparathyroidism with prevalence of 3.6%. Hypercalcemia is a rare but known cause of pancreatitis as it leads to premature intra pancreatic activation of protease and destruction of pancreatic tissue leading to pancreatitis. Here we present a case of primary hyperparathyroidism that went undiagnosed for years, and was finally diagnosed after recurrent episodes of pancreatitis of unclear etiology. Case Presentation: A 46-year-old female with history of recurrent pancreatitis presented to the emergency department due to constant epigastric pain for 6 hours associated with nausea and vomiting. Patient reported recurrent episodes of pancreatitis over the past 4 years. Patient was told that etiology of pancreatitis is unclear despite workup. Patient was frustrated that her pancreatitis attacks were usually labeled as alcoholic pancreatitis as she works as a bartender. She strongly states she only drinks alcohol occasionally. She underwent cholecystectomy 2 years ago in attempt to prevent further pancreatitis attacks. Her vital signs were stable. Physical exam was remarkable for epigastric tenderness. CT abdomen and pelvis with contrast showed chronic pancreatitis, pseudocyst and free fluid in the pancreatic bed characteristic of acute pancreatitis. Abdominal US showed post cholecystectomy changes, with no biliary dilatation or stones. Initial labs showed: lipase 2001 U/L, Alcohol level < 10 mmol/L, Calcium 11.5 mg/dl, ionized calcium 4.9 mg/dl, phosphate 2.7 mg/dl, and Triglycerides 52 mg/dl. Subsequently parathyroid hormone was checked and was 116.8 pg/ml. Vitamin D was normal. NM parathyroid scan showed increased tracer activity demonstrating parathyroid adenoma. Patient was given IVF and supportive treatment and her symptoms improved. Endocrinology recommended parathyroidectomy. Patient elected to be discharged and undergoes parathyroidectomy outpatient. Discusion: In this case we emphasize the importance of considering PHPT in acute pancreatitis of unclear etiology especially when Calcium level is elevated. PHPT was missed as a treatable etiology despite mildly elevated calcium level in prior hospitalizations. It is reported that pancreatitis is frequently associated with hypocalcemia with prevalence of 15–88%. Moreover, hypocalcemia is a component of Ranson’s scoring system for severity of pancreatitis. This is explained by precipitation of calcium soaps, hypoalbuminemia and increased calcitonin secondary to glucagon release. PTHT induced pancreatitis management has the same general principles of supportive management. All these patients, once stable, should undergo parathyroidectomy for definitive treatment. Data suggests nearly 100% improvement in pancreatitis symptoms and prevention of recurrent pancreatitis episodes after the cure of PHPT.