An Uncommon Presentation Severe Hypercalcemia Linked to Cystic Parathyroid Adenoma Despite Negative Sestamibi Scan: A Case Report

TL;DR

A rare case of severe hypercalcemia caused by a cystic parathyroid adenoma was diagnosed despite a negative sestamibi scan.

Contribution

Highlights a unique diagnostic challenge where high parathyroid hormone levels were mistakenly suspected as parathyroid carcinoma.

Findings

Cystic parathyroid adenoma was confirmed via histopathology despite negative sestamibi scan.

Hypercalcemia resolved post-surgery but led to temporary hypocalcemia requiring supplementation.

High parathyroid hormone levels in this case mimicked parathyroid carcinoma, complicating diagnosis.

Abstract

Cystic parathyroid adenomas are uncommon occurrences, constituting approximately 1-2%, of primary hyperparathyroidism cases. They frequently pose diagnostic difficulties due to their limited detection in sestamibi scans. These cases of primary hyperparathyroidism commonly manifest with hypercalcemic crisis despite negative scan results. We present a rare scenario involving an elderly male who arrived at the emergency department with a swollen left neck, primarily due to a thyroid cyst causing breathing difficulties. Incidentally, hypercalcemia was also discovered during examination. Thorough investigations ensued, leading to the decision to perform a right hemithyroidectomy to address the large thyroid cyst and a parathyroidectomy. Histopathological analysis confirmed the presence of a cystic parathyroid adenoma, with subsequent normalization of calcium levels. Following the procedures, the patient experienced hypocalcemia and required calcium supplementation. This case stands out due to the high levels of parathyroid hormone, which typically raises suspicion for parathyroid carcinoma, making it a unique diagnostic challenge.

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