About Hypercalcemia
Learn about the disease, illness and/or condition Hypercalcemia including: symptoms, causes, treatments, contraindications and conditions at ClusterMed.info.
Hypercalcemia
Hypercalcemia |
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Hypercalcemia InformationHypercalcemia facts
Hypercalcemia IntroductionCalcium is a mineral that is important in the regulation and processes of many body functions including bone formation, hormone release, muscle contraction, and nerve and brain function. Hypercalcemia is the term that refers to elevated levels of calcium in the bloodstream. Regulation of Calcium Calcium levels are tightly regulated in the body. Calcium regulation is primarily controlled by parathyroid hormone (PTH), vitamin D, and calcitonin.
Can hypercalcemia be prevented?Hypercalcemia cannot be prevented, but early detection can both allow for normalization of calcium levels and lead to an early work-up to define the cause. If there is a known family history of hypercalcemia or hyperparathyroidism, it is worth mentioning this to the health care practitioner; together the patient and health care practitioner can determine if screening is warranted. How is hypercalcemia diagnosed?Hypercalcemia is easily diagnosed with a blood test. Diagnosing the causes of hypercalcemia, however, is a more involved process; in addition to a detailed history and physical examination, it may require further blood tests (such as a PTH level and vitamin D level), urine evaluation, X-rays, and other imaging procedures. How is hypercalcemia treated?The treatment of elevated levels of calcium in the blood involves the evaluation of the following:
What are the causes of hypercalcemia?One of the most common causes of high calcium levels (hypercalcemia), is an overproduction of parathyroid hormone, or hyperparathyroidism.
What are the signs and symptoms of hypercalcemia?In the majority of patients with hypercalcemia, the signs and symptoms are minimal. In general, the symptoms increase with higher levels of calcium in the blood. In severe cases, the elevated calcium levels can cause abnormal heart rhythms with specific findings on electrocardiogram (EKG). Because of the clinical findings that are seen in hypercalcemia, the symptoms are often described as "moans, stones, groans, and bones". Some of the symptoms include the following: Moans (gastrointestinal conditions)
What is the prognosis for hypercalcemia?The results of treatment for hypercalcemia depend on the underlying cause of the condition. If hypercalcemia is seen in the presence of cancer, the average 30-day survival rate is about 50%. The prognosis is excellent for many of the other causes of hypercalcemia provided the underlying cause is addressed and treated. |
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