Primary Hyperparathyroidism and Thyroid Cancer: A Case Series - Abstract
Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHTP) is the most common cause of outpatient hypercalcemia and has a prevalence of about one to seven cases per 1,000 adults. Concurrent thyroid disease and PHPT has been reported in 20% to 84% of the cases, although no causal relationship has been established. Malignant tumors of the thyroid are identified in approximately 2% to 20% of these cases. Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common thyroid malignancy. Certain situations undoubtedly contribute to the development of both of these diseases, such as the use of therapeutic neck radiation for various clinical indications used in the past. Outside of these special situations with a clear etiology, the wide variation in reports of concomitant parathyroid and thyroid disease fuel debate as to the necessity and extent of thyroid evaluation prior to surgical treatment of PHPT. We report on 5 patients with thyroid cancer that was detected or suspected during work-up for surgical treatment of PHPT. In this case series, we aim to emphasize the need for preoperative evaluation of the thyroid gland in patients who will undergo surgical treatment for PHPT, as it is crucial to minimize reoperation rates and complications.