Parathyroid cancer medical therapy

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Ammu Susheela, M.D. [2]

The predominant therapy for parathyroid cancer is surgical resection. Adjunctive supportive therapy, chemotherapy, and radiation may be required. Supportive therapy for parathyroid cancer includes IV fluids, diuretics, and calcimimetic agents.

• There are different types of treatment for patients with parathyroid cancer.
• Treatment includes the control of hypercalcemia among patients who have an overactive parathyroid gland.

• Four types of standard treatment are used:

• Surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Supportive care
• Follow-up tests may be needed

• Supportive care is given to lessen the problems caused by the disease or its treatment. Supportive care for hypercalcemia caused by parathyroid cancer may include the following:

• Intravenous (IV) fluids
• Diuretics
• Antiresorptive agents such as biphosphonates, gallium, or mithramycin

• Calcimimetic agents that directly block secretion of the parathyroid hormone from the glands

• Gallium nitrate to reduce the calcium levels
• Calcitonin to control the calcium levels^[1]

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