Parathyroid Neoplasms

Also known as: neoplasms of the parathyroid, parathyroid masses

What are parathyroid neoplasms?

A neoplasm is an abnormal growth of tissue somewhere in the body that grows and divides more than normal. When these neoplasms occur in one of the body’s four parathyroid glands, they are known as parathyroid neoplasms. In most cases, they are benign, but they can lead to parathyroid cancer in rare instances.

​What causes parathyroid neoplasms?

The development of parathyroid neoplasms may be related to genetic mutations, or they may occur as a symptom of certain rare genetic disorders. People with a history of hyperparathyroidism, certain other medical conditions or previous radiation therapy on the neck may also be at risk.

What are the symptoms of parathyroid neoplasms?

In many cases, parathyroid neoplasms are benign and do not cause any symptoms. If they are malignant (cancer-causing), they may cause symptoms such as difficulty swallowing and speaking, a hoarse voice, shortness of breath and vocal cord paralysis. Symptoms of hyperparathyroidism are related to high calcium levels. Complications can also occur that impact the kidneys and skeleton or cause other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, weight loss and fatigue.

How can parathyroid neoplasms affect children?

Parathyroid neoplasms and parathyroid cancer are extremely rare in children.

What are parathyroid neoplasm treatments?

Some benign parathyroid neoplasms require no treatment. If treatment is needed, the most common procedure is surgery to remove the growth.

Reviewed by: Alejandro Diaz, MD

This page was last updated on: June 30, 2022 12:06 PM