[Postpartum hypercalcemia in a patient with previous thyroid carcinoma: a report of 2 cases]

Nihon Jibiinkoka Gakkai Kaiho. 2002 Aug;105(8):897-900. doi: 10.3950/jibiinkoka.105.897.
[Article in Japanese]

Abstract

We report postpartum hypercalcemia in 2 patients with previous thyroid carcinoma who had undergone total thyroidectomy and total parathyroidectomy and required vitamin D and calcium therapy to control hypoparathyroidism. Postpartum, they required less vitamin D and calcium for satisfactory control. While lactating, they maintained normal serum calcium without supplementary vitamin D or calcium. Transient remission of hypoparathyroidism symptoms has been observed during lactation. Some studies have shown that parathyroid-related protein (PTHrP) is produced by breast tissue, having an endocrine-like effect. We discuss the mechanism of postpartum hypercalcemia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Breast / metabolism
  • Calcium / adverse effects
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypercalcemia / etiology*
  • Hypoparathyroidism
  • Lactation / physiology
  • Parathyroid Hormone-Related Protein
  • Parathyroidectomy
  • Peptide Hormones / biosynthesis
  • Peptide Hormones / physiology
  • Postpartum Period*
  • Pregnancy
  • Remission, Spontaneous
  • Thyroid Neoplasms / surgery
  • Thyroidectomy
  • Vitamin D / adverse effects

Substances

  • PTHLH protein, human
  • Parathyroid Hormone-Related Protein
  • Peptide Hormones
  • Vitamin D
  • Calcium