Parathyroid adenoma

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Endocrine glands

Parathyroid glands

A parathyroid adenoma is a noncancerous (benign) tumor of the parathyroid glands, which are located in the neck.

The parathyroid glands in the neck help control calcium use and removal by the body. They do this by producing parathyroid hormone, or PTH. PTH helps control calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D levels within the blood and bone.

Parathyroid adenomas can be due to a genetic problem. The most common cause of parathyroid adenoma is hyperparathyroidism, which leads to increased blood calcium levels.

Women over 60 have the highest risk for developing this condition. Radiation to your head or neck also increase your risk.

Review Date: 07/15/2008
Reviewed By: Robert Cooper, MD, Endocinology Specialist and Chief of Medicine, Holyoke Medical Center, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston MA Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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