Diagnosis Of Parathyroid Adenoma Research Articles

Diagnostic Performance of 18F-fluorocholine PET/CT Compared to 99mTc-Sestamibi Scintigraphy in Diagnosis of Parathyroid Adenoma

Background: In most hyperparathyroidism cases, the disease is related to parathyroid adenoma (PTA). Owing to the inconsistencies of currently approved imaging methods, novel methods for detecting PTA are being evaluated. This study aimed to compare 18F-fluorocholine PET/CT with 99mTc-sestamibi SPECT/CT in identifying PTA in Saudi patients.Methods and Results: The study included 40 adult patients with PTA diagnosed by histopathological findings. 99mTc-sestamibi SPECT/CT and 18F-fluorocholine PET/CT examinations were performed for each patient, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels and histologic findings were recorded. The diagnostic ability of 18F-fluorocholine PET/CT (AUC=0.720; P=0.029) was superior to 99mTc-sestamibi SPECT/CT (AUC=0.623; P=0.214) in identifying PTA. The sensitivity and accuracy of 18F-fluorocholine PET/CT (81.5% and 75%, respectively) were significantly (P<0.05) higher than that of 99mTc-sestamibi SPECT/CT (63% and 62.5%, respectively). 18F-fluorocholine PET/CT findings were correlated significantly (P=0.023) with PTH results. Conclusion: 18F-fluorocholine PET/CT is a diagnostic imaging method superior to conventional modality 99mTc-sestamibi SPECT/CT in the detection of PTA and, thus, allows for accurate preoperative localization.

Giant parathyroid adenoma causing severe hypercalcemia; a case report from Duhok.

A 48-year-old married female with a past medical history significant for renal stones presented to the clinic chiefly complaining of muscle pain, joint pain, and fatigue. After thorough investigations, she was diagnosed with a case of primary hyperparathyroidism due to parathyroid adenoma and was managed surgically according to guidelines. Hypercalcemia, serum calcium of greater than 2 standard deviations above the reference value, is commonly seen to be associated with parathyroid mass therefore, assessment of serum calcium is a necessary step toward the diagnosis of parathyroid adenoma in cases with recurrent renal stones. Recurrent nephrolithiasis requires more thorough investigation for the possible underlying cause. Primary hyperparathyroidism due to parathyroid adenoma can present with recurrent renal stones and some vague symptoms.

MANDIBULAR BROWN TUMOR AS A MANIFESTATION OF HYPERPARATHYROIDISM: CASE REPORT

Brown tumor (BT) is nonneoplastic giant cell lesion that appears in advanced stages of hyperparathyroidism. It represents a giant cell reparative cellular phenomenon that involves areas with intense bone resorption because of high circulating parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels. A 27-year-old woman was referred with presentation of left mandibular swelling, mobility of teeth 33 and 34, and bleeding for 10 months, with an anatomopathologic diagnosis of central giant cells lesion. Orthopantomography showed bone involvement with a radiolucent image in the left mandibular body. Laboratory tests showed human parathyroid hormone (HPTH) and increased alkaline phosphatase, creatinine, and urea. Referral was made to endocrinology, which started pharmacotherapy and referred the patient for surgical removal of the left superior parathyroid. A diagnosis of parathyroid adenoma was made. The final diagnosis was a BT with central involvement. After resolution of the hyperparathyroidism, osteoplasty of the altered region was performed. Eight-month follow-up was uneventful.

Primary Hyperparathyroidism Superimposed on a Pre-existing Familial Hypocalciuric Hypercalcemia Diagnosis

Familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia is a rare clinical condition of persistently elevated serum calcium and reduced urinary calcium levels with an autosomal dominance inheritance pattern to the three out of four large types of this condition known. This rare condition goes largely undiagnosed as patients are largely asymptomatic and where symptoms are present, other causes of hypercalcemia are considered first. Hyperparathyroidism, super-imposing on FHH, is an even rarer occurrence. We present the case of an adult male with an initial provisional assessment of FHH, which was later confirmed with a genetic study. He went on to develop hyperparathyroidism (with evident enlarged parathyroid glands on Sestamibi parathyroid scan done, and an eventual histologic diagnosis of parathyroid adenoma after surgery). It remains to be established if this is an incidental occurrence or if there is a causal relationship between FHH and an onward development of parathyroid hypertrophy or adenoma(ta).

Primary Hyperparathyroidism: Modern Conception and Clinical Observation

The article is devoted to one of the actual medical and social problems — primary hyperparathyroidism, the late diagnosis of which leads to the development of severe complications and an increased risk of premature death. Unlike developed countries, where 80% of cases are represented by mild forms of the disease, in the Russian Federation this indicator does not exceed 30%, while 70% are manifest forms. Widespread awareness of doctors of various specialties in the diagnosis of parathyroid adenoma is necessary for the timely detection of the disease. The article reflects the main stages of the study of the disease, the pathogenesis of the clinical manifestations of primary hyperparathyroidism, the classic symptoms of which are changes in the target organs of the parathyroid hormone — bone tissue, urinary system and gastrointestinal tract, is considered. Bone disorders are the most common manifestation of hyperparathyroidism and are characterized by increased bone metabolism with a progressive decrease in bone mineral density. Typical changes in the kidneys include nephrolithiasis and nephrocalcinosis, causing the formation of renal failure. Gastrointestinal signs of hyperparathyroidism are erosion and ulcers of the stomach and duodenum, prone to bleeding, recurrent pancreatitis. Diagnosis of the disease is based on laboratory results, characterized by elevated levels of calcium and parathyroid hormone in the blood. Visualization of the paradenomas in most cases is provided by ultrasound and scintigraphy. Removal of parathyroid adenoma is the most effective treatment. A clinical case of a severe form of the disease is presented, indicating an urgent need to take measures to solve the problem of primary hyperparathyroidism.

Primary Hyperparathyroidism: Modern Conception and Clinical Observation

The article is devoted to one of the actual medical and social problems — primary hyperparathyroidism, the late diagnosis of which leads to the development of severe complications and an increased risk of premature death. Unlike developed countries, where 80% of cases are represented by mild forms of the disease, in the Russian Federation this indicator does not exceed 30%, while 70% are manifest forms. Widespread awareness of doctors of various specialties in the diagnosis of parathyroid adenoma is necessary for the timely detection of the disease. The article reflects the main stages of the study of the disease, the pathogenesis of the clinical manifestations of primary hyperparathyroidism, the classic symptoms of which are changes in the target organs of the parathyroid hormone — bone tissue, urinary system and gastrointestinal tract, is considered. Bone disorders are the most common manifestation of hyperparathyroidism and are characterized by increased bone metabolism with a progressive decrease in bone mineral density. Typical changes in the kidneys include nephrolithiasis and nephrocalcinosis, causing the formation of renal failure. Gastrointestinal signs of hyperparathyroidism are erosion and ulcers of the stomach and duodenum, prone to bleeding, recurrent pancreatitis. Diagnosis of the disease is based on laboratory results, characterized by elevated levels of calcium and parathyroid hormone in the blood. Visualization of the paradenomas in most cases is provided by ultrasound and scintigraphy. Removal of parathyroid adenoma is the most effective treatment. A clinical case of a severe form of the disease is presented, indicating an urgent need to take measures to solve the problem of primary hyperparathyroidism.

Diagnosis of Parathyroid Adenomas with New Ultrasound Imaging Modalities

Ultrasound technology is becoming an integral part of diagnosing parathyroid adenomas. Careful ultrasound evaluation with b-mode, shear wave elastography, and three-dimensional (3D) of parathyroid adenomas may improve localization and outcome.Introduction: A 60-year-old woman was referred for the evaluation of hyperparathyroidism. This patient gave her informed consent. She had a history of hypothyroidism and thyroid nodules. She was being treated with levothyroxine 50 mcg daily. Routine testing revealed hypercalcemia. The serum calcium was 11.2 (nL range 8.7–10.2 mg/dL), creatinine was 0.69 (nL range 0.57–1.00 mg/dL), intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) was 70 (nL range 15–65 pg/mL), phosphorus was 2.7 (nL range 2.5–4.5 mg/dL), vitamin D was 38.7 (30–100 ng/mL), and 24 hours urine calcium was 362.9 (100–300 mg/24 hour). The neck ultrasound showed two lesions one superior/posterior and the other in the inferior/posterior aspect of the right thyroid lobe measuring 11.6 × 4.4 × 9.7 mm and 14.6 × 5.0 × 10.0 mm, respectively. Both lesions resembled parathyroid adenomas. Shear wave velocity (SWV) measurements for the superior and inferior lesions were 1.67 and 1.77 m/second, respectively. For the adjacent thyroid tissue SWV was 2.3 m/second, significantly higher. 3D ultrasound examination demonstrated a polar artery in both lesions.A sestamibi scan showed a probable right parathyroid adenoma and she was referred for surgery. She was found to have two right parathyroid adenomas in the superior and inferior poles corresponding with the ultrasound finding. Intraoperative PTH level decreased from 139.9 to 17 pg/mL postresection. Six weeks after surgery, her calcium and PTH were normal.Materials and Methods: This patient was evaluated in our clinic with ultrasound imaging, including b-mode, shear wave elastography (SWE), and 3D ultrasound.Discussion: Most patients with primary hyperparathyroidism have a single parathyroid adenoma. Other causes include glandular hyperplasia, multiple adenomas, and parathyroid carcinoma.1,2 This case shows two parathyroid adenomas in the neck posterior to the right thyroid lobe. The role of ultrasound in diagnosing parathyroid adenomas is becoming more prominent because of improved technology, low cost, and noninvasive nature.With this case we illustrate that SWE can be an added value to b-mode ultrasound in diagnosing parathyroid adenomas. Our previous publication in the Journal of European Radiology reported that SWV measurement of parathyroid adenomas may enhance other sonographic parameters to predict the diagnosis. In our view, parathyroid adenomas appear to have a more homogenous texture and lower tissue stiffness when compared with the thyroid gland.3 This case confirms our prior findings.It can be challenging to differentiate parathyroid adenomas from lymph nodes (LNs) and ectopic thyroid tissue at level 6, with b-mode ultrasound. A combination of 3D ultrasound images with 3D color Doppler (CD) might improve our ability to identify the polar artery and enhance differentiation from LN. 3D technology might improve the view by adding coronal view to current b-mode that comprises of transverse and longitudinal views. This is a preliminary report, and more studies need to be done.Conclusion: Combining multiple image modalities, including b-mode, shear wave elastography, and 3D technology, may improve our ability to identify parathyroid adenomas. Parathyroid adenomas have a lower SWV compared with thyroid tissue. 3D ultrasound technology may enhance view of polar artery when adding 3D CD. This challenging case illustrates the utility of these additional modalities.No competing financial interests exist.Runtime of video: 1 min, 52 secs

Circular RNA profile of parathyroid neoplasms: analysis of co-expression networks of circular RNAs and mRNAs

ABSTRACTCircular RNAs (circRNAs) are a recently identified class of non-coding RNAs that participate in multiple biological processes and tumour progression. However, circRNA expression pattern in parathyroid neoplasms remains unknown. The circRNA profile of 6 parathyroid carcinomas (PCs), 6 parathyroid adenomas (PAs) and 4 normal parathyroid tissues was assessed by a microarray. Bioinformatic analyses were performed to investigate potential core circRNAs via co-expression network. CircRNA and corresponding mRNA expression were validated in a cohort of parathyroid neoplasms by RT-qPCR and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Compared to normal parathyroid, 5310 and 1055 circRNAs were differentially expressed in PC and PA tissues, respectively. The differential expression of 4 circRNAs (hsa_circRNA_0035563 (p = 0.006), hsa_circRNA_0017545 (p = 0.009), hsa_circRNA_0001687 (p = 0.005) and hsa_circRNA_0075005 (p = 0.001)) and 4 mRNAs (MYC, FSCN1, ANXA2 and AKR1C3) between PC and PA tissues were confirmed by RT-qPCR. In addition, high expression of hsa_circ_0035563 was related to CDC73 mutations (p = 0.022) and recurrence in PC patients (p = 0.042). Furthermore, hsa_circ_0075005 helped distinguish PCs from benign lesions using FISH, and the area under the curve was 0.779 (p = 0.013). Our findings describe the circRNA profile of PC for the first time and suggest that circRNAs and mRNAs interact in parathyroid tumourigenesis. This study demonstrates that hsa_circ_0075005 and MYC mRNA may be used for the differential diagnosis of PC and PA. The expression levels of hsa_circ_0035563 are related to CDC73 mutations and recurrence in malignancy, highlighting the significance of this parameter in prognosis of PC patients.

MON-LB060 Atypical Presentation of Parathyroid Carcinoma: Case Report

Background: Parathyroid carcinoma is a rare cause of primary hyperparathyroidism (0.74%), with an incidence of 0.36 (2000-2012), age presentation between 44-54 y/o, and symptoms associated with neck mass, bone and renal disease, as a consequence of marked hypercalcemia and elevated Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)1. Clinical Case: 85 y/o male, with 12-month history of weight loss (20Kg) along with unstable gait, laboratory with incidental findings of hypercalcemia (serum Calcium: 15.5mg/dL) and elevated PTH (PTH: 1141pg/mL). SESTAMIBI SPECT showed increased uptake in the inferior left thyroid lobe. Patient is admitted for elective parathyroidectomy with diagnosis of parathyroid adenoma. Patient had well-controlled hypertension and denied bone fractures, kidney stones, neck nodules or tumors. On physical exam, no visible or palpable neck mass was evident. Repeat admission lab results confirm malignant hypercalcemia: calcium: 14.14mg/dL, PTH: 1262pg/mL, creatinine: 2.34mg/dL. Surgery Findings: calcified enlarged left thyroid mass with no clear parathyroid definition. Mass is removed along with lymph nodes. Hypercalcemia and elevated PTH persists postoperatively (Serum calcium: 15.2mg/dL, PTH: 1552pg/mL) and patient is started on zoledronic acid with good response. Final pathology report: neoplastic ovoid and round cells, fibrous bands circumscribing lobes, acinar and trabecular structures with plexiform vasculature, areas of necrosis and calcifications with venous angioinvasion: parathyroid carcinoma. Oncology discharges patient with palliative care upon family request. Being a sporadic parathyroid carcinoma, genetic testing for germline HRPT2 (CDC73) mutations is requested. No mutations were detected. Conclusion: Parathyroid carcinoma is a rare endocrine tumor, with a 5-year survival rate of 64,8% upon complete tumor resection. Our patient represents one of the few case reports on silent parathyroid carcinoma in an elderly patient with residual disease currently on pharmacological management for persistent hypercalcemia, and negative genetic testing. Key words: parathyroid carcinoma, hyperparathyroidism, hypercalcemia, HRPT2 (CDC73) gen

Ectopic parathyroid adenoma in the carotid sheath

Parathyroid adenomas can be found in various ectopic positions including the carotid sheath. We report a 52-year-old Libyan woman who presented with neck mass and a fragility fracture. Her serum Calcium was elevated (14.3 mg/dl), as well as her parathyroid hormone (1202 pg/ml). Technetium-99m-sestamibi scan showed a large localized parathyroid adenoma at the upper lateral left aspect of the neck just below the left submandibular gland. The patient underwent surgical resection, and the histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of parathyroid adenoma. The rarity of the ectopic parathyroid adenoma in the carotid sheath led to a delayed diagnosis of this case. Therefore, ectopic parathyroid adenoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of masses that arise from the carotid sheath.

Disseminated Bone Pain Related to Brown Tumors Revealing a Parathyroid Adenoma: A Case Report

Introduction: Primary hyperparathyroidism is a common disease especially in women but rarely discovered by multiple brown tumors with near normal serum calcium. Case report: A 64-year-old manpresented with disseminated bone pain. He had X-rays and a CT scan that objectified lytic lesions. These lesions correspond to multiple areas of intense uptake in bone scan evoking brown tumors. Biology showed calcium at 2.66mmol/l and PTH in serum at 2003µg/l. The diagnosis of parathyroid adenoma was highly suspected that’s why we did a Tc99msestamibi dabble phase parathyroid scan. It showed a left inferior parathyroid adenoma. Conclusion: The scintigraphic imaging is a valuable contribution to the diagnosis of brown tumor, it also allows for the etiologic diagnosis by detecting the nodule parathyroid.

A case of hypercalcemia complicated with hyperthyroidism

A case of primary hyperparathyroidism(PHPT) complicated with Graves' disease was reported. The parathyroid lesion(s) could not be identified by repeated MIBI and ultrasonography tests. With the control of hyperthyroidism, medical therapies of hypercalcemia were still not effective, the serum calcium levels continued to be high. Thus, the decision to operate was made. The pathological findings confirmed the diagnosis of parathyroid adenoma. For PHPT patients with clear surgical indications, even though the pre-operative localizing tests are negative, operation is still worth to try. (Chin J Endocrinol Metab, 2016, 32: 146-148) Key words: Hyperthyroidism; Primary Hyperparathyroidism; Hypercalcemia

Parathyroid adenomas – a cluster of boys

Primary hyperparathyroidism is rare in children and adolescents, representing 1% of all cases, with a slight female preponderance [1-3]. 3-5% of cases are hereditary and may represent the initial clinical manifestation of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1). Over the last 30 years, ten cases of primary hyperparathyroidism have presented to our hospital, all aged 11-14 years, with nine cases being male, and eight cases over the last six years. Presenting features included headache and blurred vision in five patients, abdominal pain and nausea (in three), renal calculi (in four), generalized bone pain (in three) and two asymptomatic. One patient had received radiation for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Other history included ADHD (in one patient), mild developmental delay (in one), depression (in one) and fine motor difficulties (in one). No patients had a significant family history. Peak corrected calcium level ranged between 3.12-3.65 mmol/L (2.1-2.65), peak PTH level 6.9-154 pmol/L (1-7), and urine calcium creatinine ratio 0.47-2.76mM/mM (0.04-0.7). Serum alkaline phosphatase was 212-549U/L (80-355), and normal in three of the renal calculi patients. Bony changes were seen in three patients, with flaring of clavicles and widening of epiphyses, decreased phalangeal cortical density and osteopenia. 25-OH calciferol was low at 27-39nmol/L (>50) in 3 of 7 patients in whom it was measured. Thyroid ultrasound detected suspicious lesions in seven patients and was normal in three patients. Sestamibi scan was negative for three patients (with one ectopic gland) and indicated a single overactive gland in seven patients. All patients had a positive result from at least one modality. All patients underwent surgical resection, with a single benign parathyroid adenoma identified in each case. The only significant post-operative issues were initial hypocalcaemia (lowest cCa 1.8mmol/L) in eight patients, requiring management with calcitriol and elemental calcium. There was normalisation of calcium over several weeks post-operatively, with gradual weaning of supplementation required. In all, post-operative PTH level was suppressed. MEN1 screening has been negative for all patients. This case series illustrates the difficulties involved in the diagnosis of parathyroid adenoma in children, requiring both scintigraphy and ultrasound. Scintigraphy has been reported in the literature to have 88% sensitivity, lower in our case series, compared to 78% sensitivity for ultrasound [4]. The gender mix of our cases differs significantly from other reported case series, being predominantly male [3,5] and there is a suggestion of increasing incidence over recent years.

Conventional Minimally Invasive Parathyroidectomy for Single Parathyroid Adenoma

Background: Minimally invasive parathyroidectomy is actually the gold standard in the treatment of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) due to parathyroid adenoma (PA). Material and Methods: A clinical retrospective study was performed on a series of 40 cases operated for pHPT by single PA from January 2013 to March 2015, in the surgical department of the “St. Spiridon” Hospital of Iasi, a refferal center for endocrine surgery. Biochemical markers achieved the diagnosis of PHPT and PA was localized using cervical US and MIBI scintigraphy. Conventional minimally invasive parathyroidectomy (C-MIP) was performed in all cases where PA was accurately localised by preoperative imaging, whereas conventional cervical exploration was necessary in cases with concomitant thyroid pathology. Results: Preoperative localisation findings were concordant with the intraoperative findings, except for one case when conversion to bilateral exploration was deemed and the PA was identified on the other side. In 8 cases, additional thyroid pathology – uni/multinodular goiter and a papillary microcarcinoma imposed a conventional PT adenomectomy and concomitant lobectomy/total thyroidectomy. The values of calcemia and PTH decreased significantly postoperatively and reached normal range in all cases. With the exception of a transient reccurrent nerve paresis (in a patient with total thyroidectomy), no postoperative morbidity and mortality was encountered. Conclusion: Conventional mini-incision parathyroidectomy (C-MIP) has an excellent cure rate and minimal morbidity, with a reduced hospital stay and cost compared with the conventional extensive approach.

Morphological evaluation of parathyroid adenomas and immunohistochemical analysis of pcna and ki-67 proliferation markers

Parathyroid adenomas are the most common cause of primary hyperparathyroidism. Biological studies have shown that parathyroid adenomas are monoclonal proliferations. Up to date, five cell types have been identified in normal parathyroid tissues; chief cells, vacuolated chief cells, dark chief cells, oxyphil cells and transitional oxyphil cells. Most parathyroid adenomas are predominantly composed of chief cells. In this study, we aimed to indicate the relationship between the predominant cell type in parathyroid adenomas and proliferating cell nuclear antigen, Ki-67 antigen, and serum parathormone levels and the gland weight. 15 cases who had a diagnosis of parathyroid adenomas were included in the study. Histopathologically, the predominant cell type was determined in all the cases. Paraffin blocks were immunohistochemically stained with proliferating cell nuclear antigen and Ki-67. The average parathormone level of the cases was 239.52 ± 36.61 pg/ml before surgery. Mean gland weight was 1.69 ± 0.49 g. Two of the cases showed atypical adenoma characteristics. The predominant cell type was vacuolated chief cell. Immunohistochemical investigation showed that the mean average Ki-67 index value was 4.26 ± 0.86%. The mean proliferating cell nuclear antigen index was 93.20± 45.72/10³. There was a meaningful relationship between gland weights and serum parathormone levels. There was no meaningful relationship between predominant cell types and serum parathormone levels, proliferating cell nuclear antigen index, and Ki-67 index. The chief cell was identified as the predominant cell type. It can be concluded that parathyroid adenomas come into existence as a result of neoplastic proliferation of chief cells, especially vacuolated chief cells.

Intensa retención de 99mTc-MIBI en la fase tardía como causa de error diagnóstico en la gammagrafía combinada paratiroides-tiroides

Dual phase parathyroid scintigraphy with 99mTc-sestaMIBI is a very sensitive technique in the preoperative localization and diagnosis of parathyroid adenoma. However, pitfalls have been reported in patients with thyroid nodules with MIBI uptake or with previous thyroid surgery. To solve this problem, a thyroid scintigraphy with 99mTc-pertechnetate is usually performed following the parathyroid study. Occasionally, as in our patient the parathyroid lesion may show high MIBI uptake and delayed washout that interfere with the subsequent thyroid scintigraphy giving the false appearance of a pertechnetate avid lesion. This has been called the «shine through» effect. To avoid it, the parathyroid and thyroid scintigraphies can be performed on separate days. We have also found it useful to compare our results with that of ultrasound and fine needle aspiration puncture with measurement of the parathyroid hormone (PTH) and thyroglobulin in the aspirated material.

High retention of 99mTc-MIBI in delayed phase as a pitfall in combined parathyroidthyroid scintigraphy

Dual phase parathyroid scintigraphy with 99mTc-sestaMIBI is a very sensitive technique in the preoperative localization and diagnosis of parathyroid adenoma. However, pitfalls have been reported in patients with thyroid nodules with MIBI uptake or with previous thyroid surgery. To solve this problem, a thyroid scintigraphy with 99mTc-pertechnetate is usually performed following the parathyroid study. Occasionally, as in our patient the parathyroid lesion may show high MIBI uptake and delayed washout that interfere with the subsequent thyroid scintigraphy giving the false appearance of a pertechnetate avid lesion. This has been called the “shine throught” effect. To avoid it, the parathyroid and thyroid scintigraphies can be performed on separate days. We have also found it useful to compare our results with that of ultrasound and fine needle aspiration puncture with measurement of the parathyroid hormone (PTH) and thyroglobulin in the aspirated material.

Unusual presentation of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A in a patient with the C634R mutation of the RET-protooncogene

The aim of this paper is to report an atypical presentation of MEN2A, in a patient carrying the C634R mutation of the RET-protooncogene. A 41-year-old Tunisian woman was admitted to our department with newly diagnosed hyperglycemia. She had a history of bilateral urinary stone recurrence, managed successfully on two occasions. On physical examination a thyroid node of 1cm on the left side was found. Laboratory evaluation and imaging findings confirmed the diagnosis of primary hyperparathyroidism. During cervicotomy, the parathyroid adenoma was resected and the thyroid node was suspected to be a carcinoma. Total thyroidectomy, with appropriate neck nodal resection, was performed. Histological examination confirmed the diagnosis of parathyroid adenoma and revealed a multifocal and bilateral medullary carcinoma. These findings led to the diagnosis of multiple endocrine neoplasia. DNA-analysis demonstrated a germline Cys634Arg mutation in the RET-protooncogene. During the postoperative follow-up, blood pressure as well as the level of urinary methoxylated metabolites increased progressively. Imaging findings were compatible with the diagnosis of bilateral pheochromocytoma. In conclusion, this case report of MEN 2A linked to a 634 RET mutation was peculiar by its revelation mode (1) hyperparathyroidism moreover linked to an adenoma and (2) associated with diabetes, mechanisms of which are probably multifactorial (familial type 2 diabetes, hypercalcemia, catecholamines excess).

Childbearing and the risk of parathyroid adenoma--a dominant cause for primary hyperparathyroidism.

To explore possible associations between the reproductive history amongst women and the risk of parathyroid adenoma (PA). Two nationwide Swedish registries. The Fertility Register included data on more than 3.4 million livebirths between 1943 and 1992 amongst Swedish females born 1925-72. The Cancer Register encompasses more than 1800 women with a diagnosis of PA 1960 until 1992. All women resident in Sweden 1960-92. Cases were all 1800 women born 1925-72 reported to the Swedish Cancer Registry with a histopathological diagnosis of PA. Five controls were selected at random for each case by matching for the month and year of birth. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate relative risks of PA. Parathyroid adenoma. High parity (four or more live births) was associated with an increased risk of PA. Amongst women with a diagnosis of PA before menopause (i.e. the age of 50 years) there was an increased risk of PA with younger age at first childbirth. Nulliparous women were at increased risk for PA before menopause, and at decreased risk after menopause. There is an association between childbearing and the risk of PA, which has not previously been demonstrated, but the underlying biological mechanisms remain to be determined.

Comparative analysis of clonality and pathology in primary and secondary hyperparathyroidism.

Parathyroid adenoma and hyperplasia are the most common causes for hyperparathyroidism, and distinction between them is controversial based on the current criteria for pathological diagnosis. We studied the clonality of hyperparathyroidism and its correlation with the pathological features, analysing 39 female patients with hyperparathyroidism. Clonality was successfully detected in 12 heterozygous cases by PCR amplification of PGK-1 gene. The 12 cases yielded 14 hypercellular glands, 8 affected by primary and 6 by secondary hyperparathyroidism. The results revealed that 7 of the 8 glands with primary hyperparathyroidism showed monoclonal proliferation. Only 1 gland pathologically diagnosed as adenoma showed a polyclonal pattern. In the 4 cases with secondary hyperparathyroidism, at least one monoclonal tumour was detected in each case. Our data indicate that monoclonal tumours are more common than expected in both primary and secondary hyperparathyroidism. Monoclonal tumours and polyclonal hyperplasia can co-exist in the same patient. Comparative study of the clonality and the pathological features showed that the clonality was consistent with the diagnosis of parathyroid adenoma, whereas it was in conflict with the diagnosis of hyperplasia with multigland involvement. One of the reasons for this is that we are ignorant of the true natures of hyperparathyroidism with multigland involvement.