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The parathyroids are a set of four glands situated in the neck that synthesizes and secretes parathyroid hormone (PTH) to help control calcium used by the body. Normally, unusually large quantities of PTH secreted due to increased activities of these glands causes hyperthyroidism. When this occurs on account of lower blood calcium levels (hypocalcemia) the excessive secretion of PTH from the parathyroid gland occurs in the human body thus leading to a medical complication known as secondary hyperparathyroidism. This is a characteristic ailment in patients who undergo renal failure.

Causes of Secondary Hyperparathyroidism :

This condition has varied causes. The blood calcium is maintained by the PTH by means of regulating the bone turnover, absorption of calcium from the gut and release of calcium in the urine. Secondary hyperparathyroidism is mainly caused low levels of blood calcium and an imbalance in the phosphate levels. The causes of such imbalances are brought about other disorders of the body like deficiency of Vitamin D, Rickets (osteomalacia), improper absorption of Vitamin D and abnormal Vitamin D absorption induced by drugs. The more prone people to Vitamin D deficiency include malnutritioned children and elderly people with little sun exposure. Also calcium deficiency in the diet or too much loss of calcium in the urine may also be major reasons for this disorder. Read the rest of this entry »