Pediatric Parathyroid Masses
What is Pediatric Parathyroid Masses?
A parathyroid mass is a tumor inside one of the parathyroid glands. Most parathyroid masses are noncancerous. The parathyroid glands are in the front of your neck, close to your thyroid gland. Their job is to produce and secrete parathyroid hormone, which regulates the amount of calcium in your blood and bone. Parathyroid masses can cause an increase in the level of parathyroid hormone that is being released, leading to a condition called hyperparathyroidism.
What are the signs and symptoms of Pediatric Parathyroid Masses?
Many children with parathyroid masses will not experience any symptoms unless the tumor leads to hyperparathyroidism. Symptoms of hyperparathyroidism will differ from child to child, but may include:
Aches and pains
Confusion
Excessive urination
Muscle weakness
How is Pediatric Parathyroid Masses diagnosed?
There are several methods that are used for diagnosing parathyroid masses. Your child’s doctor may use a combination of these methods:
History and physical exam
Blood and urine tests
X-rays
What are the causes of Pediatric Parathyroid Masses?
The exact cause of parathyroid masses is unknown. As with all types of tumors, they manifest as a growth of abnormal cells that multiply rapidly.
How is Pediatric Parathyroid Masses treated?
The most common treatment for parathyroid masses is surgery to remove the tumor.
Pediatric Parathyroid Masses Doctors and Providers
