Parathyromatosis: A Rare Case of Recurrent Hyperparathyroidism Localized by Four-Dimensional Computed Tomography

Abstract

To present a rare case of parathyromatosis. We present the clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings, along with a review of the literature. A 33-year-old man with a history of right upper parathyroid adenoma removal 5 years prior due to hyperparathyroidism was admitted for severe hypercalcemia (15.6 mg/dL; normal, 8.5 to 10.5 mg/dL) with elevated plasma parathyroid hormone (PTH) (882 pg/mL; normal, 15 to 65 pg/mL). Ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), sestamibi, and positron emission tomography scans were unremarkable; however, a four-dimensional CT (4DCT) of the neck showed an area of increased signal enhancement and hypervascularity without discrete nodule in the posterior right thyroid region. The patient underwent parathyroid surgical exploration with right hemithyroidectomy and compartment neck dissection to remove the affected tissue. PTH levels dropped to 208 pg/mL postoperatively; calcium decreased but remained elevated at 12.7 mg/dL. Pathology revealed the presence of several small nodular foci of atypical hyperplastic parathyroid tissue in the right thyroid and soft tissue in the left central neck compartment consistent with parathyromatosis. This case report represents the first-time use of 4DCT to localize parathyromatosis. Parathyromatosis is a rare but problematic cause of recurrent hyperparathyroidism. Ultrasound and 4DCT may represent the best imaging modalities for identification and perioperative management to remove all affected tissue without reseeding.