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Choi, Lee, Chung, Park, Lee, Won, Kim, and Kim: A Case of Hyperthyroidism Associated with Symptomatic Hypercalcemia
Case Report
Journal of Korean Society of Endocrinology

Journal of Korean Society of Endocrinology 2006; 21(3): 251-256.

Published online: 20 June 2006

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3803/jkes.2006.21.3.251

A Case of Hyperthyroidism Associated with Symptomatic Hypercalcemia

Ju Hyun Choi, Woo Je Lee1, Yun Hee Chung, Hye Won Park, Dan Bi Lee, Jong Chul Won, Duk Jae Kim, Ghi Su Kim

Department of Internal Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Korea.

1Department of Internal Medicine, Inje University College of Medicine, Sanggye Paik Hospital, Korea.

Received 15 December 2005       Accepted 28 March 2006

Copyright © 2006 Korean Endocrine Society

Abstract

Two of the common causes of hypercalcemia are malignancy and primary hyperparathyroidism. These disorders are easily diagnosed by the clinical manifestations and measurement of the serum intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) level. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism is an uncommon cause of hypercalcemia. The diagnosis of hypercalcemia associated with hyperthyroidism can only be made by excluding the common causes of hypercalcemia and by observing the improvement of the hypercalcemia and its associated symptoms with normalizing the thyroid function.
Herein we reported our experience with a 67 year-old woman who presented with nausea and vomiting. She showed elevated serum calcium and phosphorus levels. Serum intact PTH level was 1.1 pg/mL (normal range; 10~65). The results of the thyroid function test were compatible with hyperthyroidism. After resolution of the thyrotoxicosis with combination treatment of methimazol and Lugol's solution, the patient's serum calcium and phosphorus levels were normalized and the symptoms were improved.

Keywords: Graves' disease, Hypercalcemia, Hyperphosphatemia, Hyperthyroidism

Figures and Tables

Fig. 1
Bone mineral density at initial diagnosis.
jkse-21-251-g001
Fig. 2
Technetium-99m thyroid scan shows diffuse enlargement with homogenous increased uptake of 16.1%.
jkse-21-251-g002
Fig. 3
Serial measurements of calcium and phosphorous.
jkse-21-251-g003
Table 1
Change of laboratory profile during management of hyperthyroidism
jkse-21-251-i001

HD: Hospital day, OPD: Out Patient Department

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