HYPERPARATHYROIDISM IN ASSOCIATION WITH LITHIUM-THERAPY

  • 1 January 1981
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 42  (1) , 38-39
Abstract
This report describes a patient who was normocalcemic prior to treatment with Li for manic-depressive psychosis and documents progressive hypercalcemia ensuing over the subsequent 6 yr of therapy. Elevated parathyroid hormone levels were found and neck exploration revealed a parathyroid adenoma. Unlike the usual case of hyperparathyroidism, the hypercalcemia was associated with a very low urinary excretion of Ca. The literature is reviewed and possible pathogenetic mechanisms discussed. Serum Ca should be determined before and periodically during Li therapy. In susceptible individuals, hypercalcemia may occur due to the unmasking or development of parathyroid adenoma.

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