Work

The Hidden Dangers of Hypercalcemia: A Case Report of Undiagnosed Symptoms Leading to Complications

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Hypercalcemia is a relatively common metabolic abnormality; however, it is frequently undiagnosed. It often manifests with neuropsychiatric, gastrointestinal, renal, and musculoskeletal symptoms. We report the case of a 75-year-old woman with a history of syncope, anorexia, asthenia, weight loss, polydipsia, polyuria, visual hallucinations, confusion, generalized tonic-clonic seizures, and depression. Laboratory workup revealed severe hypercalcemia (ionized calcium: 1.81 mmol/L) with normal renal function and significantly elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels. A diagnosis of primary hyperparathyroidism was made, and the patient was treated with fluid therapy and zoledronic acid, resulting in the resolution of the symptoms.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.78631

Authors: Ana Filipa Silva, Francisco Belchior, Francisco Pombo, Lindora Pires

Institution: Centro Hospitalar do Tâmega e Sousa

Language: English

Topic: Parathyroid Disorders and Treatments

Subfield: Nephrology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4407232226