Parathyroid Tumors: What Are They & When Do They Need Surgery?

The parathyroid glands are tiny, pea-sized glands located behind the thyroid in the neck. Despite their small size, they play a big role in regulating calcium levels in the blood. Sometimes, these glands can develop tumors, which may lead to health problems requiring surgical treatment.

What Are Parathyroid Tumors?

Parathyroid tumors are abnormal growths in the parathyroid glands. These tumors are most commonly benign (non-cancerous) and are called parathyroid adenomas. Rarely, they can be malignant (cancerous) a condition known as parathyroid carcinoma.

Role of Parathyroid Glands

Parathyroid glands produce a hormone called parathyroid hormone (PTH), which controls:

• Calcium absorption from food
• Calcium release from bones
• Calcium excretion by the kidneys

When a tumor forms, it can cause overproduction of PTH, resulting in a condition called primary hyperparathyroidism where calcium levels in the blood become too high (hypercalcemia).

Symptoms of Parathyroid Tumors

Most parathyroid tumors are asymptomatic in the early stages. But as calcium levels rise, you may experience:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Bone pain or fractures
• Kidney stones
• Nausea or vomiting
• Frequent urination
• Abdominal pain
• Mood changes or depression
• Memory issues or brain fog

How Are Parathyroid Tumors Diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually begins with blood tests showing high calcium and PTH levels. To confirm the presence and location of the tumor, doctors may use:

• Ultrasound of the neck
• Sestamibi scan
• CT or MRI scans
• Bone density tests (DEXA)

Types of Parathyroid Tumors

1.     Parathyroid Adenoma

o    Most common type

o    Usually benign

o    Causes overproduction of PTH

2.     Parathyroid Hyperplasia

o    Enlargement of multiple parathyroid glands

3.     Parathyroid Carcinoma

o    Rare and cancerous

o    Requires aggressive treatment

When Do Parathyroid Tumors Need Surgery?

Surgery is the only curative treatment for most parathyroid tumors, especially when:

• You have symptoms of hypercalcemia
• Such as kidney stones, bone pain, or cognitive issues

· Blood calcium levels are consistently high

•           You’re younger than 50 years old

· To prevent long-term complications

•  You have bone loss or osteoporosis
•  You have kidney function impairment or kidney stones
•  The tumor is suspected to be cancerous

What is Parathyroidectomy?

Parathyroidectomy is the surgical removal of one or more parathyroid glands. It is typically done using a minimally invasive approach, with a small neck incision guided by imaging studies.

Benefits of Surgery:

• Normalizes calcium and PTH levels
• Improves bone health and kidney function
• Reverses symptoms like fatigue and mood changes
• Prevents long-term complications

Recovery After Parathyroid Surgery

• Most patients go home the same day or next day
• You may experience temporary voice hoarseness or neck soreness
• Blood calcium levels are closely monitored after surgery
• Full recovery usually takes 1–2 weeks

Risks of Not Treating Parathyroid Tumors

Without treatment, high calcium levels can lead to:

• Kidney damage and stones
• Osteoporosis and fractures
• Heart rhythm disturbances
• Cognitive dysfunction
• Reduced quality of life

Takeaway: Don’t Ignore the Signs

Parathyroid tumors are often overlooked because their symptoms are vague or nonspecific. But when left untreated, they can cause serious health problems. If you experience fatigue, bone pain, or kidney stones and blood tests show high calcium it may be time to consult a parathyroid surgeon or endocrine specialist.

Early diagnosis and expert surgical care can restore balance to your body and protect your long-term health.