What is parathyroid carcinoma?
Parathyroid carcinoma is a rare malignant tumor of the parathyroid gland characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of cancer cells. While parathyroid adenoma is a benign tumor causing overproduction of parathyroid hormone (PTH), parathyroid carcinoma is associated with a higher risk of local invasion and distant metastasis.
What are the symptoms of parathyroid carcinoma?
Parathyroid carcinoma can present with various symptoms, although some individuals may not experience any noticeable signs initially. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent hypercalcemia: Elevated calcium levels in the blood, resulting in symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting, increased thirst and urination, and bone pain.
- Kidney stones or kidney damage: High levels of calcium in the bloodstream can increase the risk of developing kidney stones or lead to kidney damage over time.
- Bone pain or fractures: Parathyroid carcinoma can cause the bones to weaken due to excessive calcium loss, leading to bone pain, tenderness, or an increased risk of fractures.
- Gastrointestinal issues: Some individuals with parathyroid carcinoma may experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, constipation, or loss of appetite.
What is the difference between parathyroid cancer and parathyroid carcinoma?
The terms "parathyroid cancer" and "parathyroid carcinoma" are sometimes used interchangeably to refer to malignant tumors originating from the parathyroid glands. However, parathyroid cancer is a broad term encompassing any malignant growth originating from the parathyroid glands. It signifies the presence of cancerous cells within the parathyroid tissue, which may exhibit aggressive behavior such as invasion into surrounding tissues or metastasis to distant organs.
Parathyroid carcinoma specifically refers to a rare and aggressive form of parathyroid cancer characterized by malignant transformation of the parathyroid cells. It represents a subtype of parathyroid cancer with distinct features, including rapid growth, invasion into adjacent tissues, and a higher likelihood of distant metastasis.
How do you treat parathyroid carcinoma?
The treatment of parathyroid carcinoma typically involves surgical removal of the affected parathyroid gland(s) and surrounding tissues, known as en bloc resection. This extensive surgery aims to remove all cancerous tissue and reduce the risk of recurrence. In some cases, additional treatments such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be recommended to target any remaining cancer cells or manage symptoms.
What causes parathyroid carcinoma?
The exact cause of parathyroid carcinoma is not always clear, although certain factors may increase the risk of developing this rare cancer, including:
- Genetic mutations: Parathyroid carcinoma may be associated with inherited genetic mutations, such as multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1), Familial isolated hyperparathyroidism (FIHP) or hyperparathyroidism-jaw tumor syndrome (HPT-JT).
- Radiation exposure: Previous radiation therapy to the head, neck, or chest area may increase the risk of developing parathyroid carcinoma.
- Age and gender: Parathyroid carcinoma is more common in older adults, particularly those over the age of 50, and tends to affect women slightly more often than men.
Parathyroid carcinoma is a rare but aggressive cancer that requires prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment for optimal outcomes. If you're experiencing symptoms suggestive of hypercalcemia or have concerns about your parathyroid health, it's essential to seek medical evaluation and guidance from a healthcare professional.