Endocrine Abstracts

Introduction: Hyperparathyroidism in the elderly is an endocrine pathology characterized by excessive secretion of parathormone by the parathyroid glands, leading to elevated blood calcium levels. This condition has significant implications for bone and renal health in this population.

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of parathyroid adenomas and their association with calcium and PTH levels in elderly patients, to improve diagnostic strategies and management of hyperparathyroidism.

Methods: Retrospective analysis of clinical and imaging data of 12 patients from Ibn Rochd Hospital, Casablanca, from January 2018 to October 2023, to identify epidemiological and therapeutic signs of primary hyperparathyroidism in the elderly.

Results: Among 12 patients with an average age of 70 years, predominantly female (9 women and 3 men), high levels of calcium (average calcemia of 114.18 mg/l) and phosphorus (average of 12.61 mg/l) were observed. PTH was notably increased with an average of 825.84 pg/ml. Ultrasounds revealed that 10 patients had parathyroid adenomas. Scintigraphy indicated hyperfixation in 7 patients. Osteoporosis was diagnosed in half of the patients, while renal lithiasis was identified in 3 patients. Additionally, 2 patients showed pathological factors, and 8 patients were discovered incidentally. Bone pain was present in 8 patients, and 3 suffered from a polyuria-polydipsia syndrome.

Conclusion: Hyperparathyroidism in the elderly manifests with various complications, such as osteoporosis, renal lithiasis, and bone pain. The prevalence of parathyroid adenomas in this study underscores the importance of ultrasound screening. The incidental findings suggest that regular examinations could be beneficial for this population.