Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Parathyroid cancer medical therapy
Introduction
Overview
Overview
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.
Medical Therapy
Medical Therapy
- 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.
Standard Therapy
- Four types of standard treatment are used:
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Supportive care
- Follow-up tests may be needed
Supportive Care
- 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]
References
References
- ↑ Parathyroid cancer. Cancer.gov (2015). http://www.cancer.gov/types/parathyroid/hp Accessed on December 29, 2015
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Ammu Susheela, M.D. [2]