Hypoparathyroidism (cont.)
How is hypoparathyroidism treated?
The goal of treatment for hypoparathyroidism is to restore the body's calcium
and phosphorus to normal levels. Calcium carbonate and vitamin D supplements are
the only currently approved treatment. However, NIH studies have shown the
investigational drug PTH to work well as an alternative therapy.
If hypoparathyroidism is diagnosed and treated early, outcomes are usual good
and the body grows normally.
If hypoparathyroidism is left untreated, complications can include a blocked
airway due to severe muscle spasms, stunted growth, malformed teeth, development
of cataracts, and calcium deposits in the brain.
SOURCE: National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Child Health and
Human Development
Last Editorial Review: 9/24/2008