Alternative Names & Classifications:
Overactive Parathyroid (CLINICAL), Primary Hyperparathyroidism (CLINICAL)
Description
Primary hyperparathyroidism occurs when one or more of the parathyroid glands develop a benign adenoma and secrete excessive parathyroid hormone (PTH) independent of normal regulatory feedback. High PTH levels aggressively strip calcium from the bones and dump it into the bloodstream. It most commonly affects postmenopausal women and is frequently discovered incidentally through routine bloodwork showing elevated calcium.