What is Parathyroid Carcinoma?
Parathyroid cancer is a rare type of cancer that originates from the uncontrolled division and multiplication of tissues of the parathyroid gland.Disease Causes
There is no well-known cause, however, certain hereditary and genetic mutations are considered responsible for the development of parathyroid carcinoma of the pancreas.Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are- A mass, nodule, or lump in the neck
- Changing in the voice (Hoarse Voice)
- Increased blood calcium levels which can be detected on lab test
- Constant feeling of depression
- Excessive thirst
- Excessive need to go to the toilet to pass urine
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite (Hunger)
- Muscle weakness
- Difficulty in focusing on work
- Kidney stones and kidney failure
- Bone weakness
- Bone pains
- Constant feeling of tiredness
- Excessive sweating at night
- Fever
- Unexplained weight loss
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are- Physical Examination of the neck (Doctor will examine the whole neck, neck glands, and body to see any signs of the disease such as a mass or lump in the neck).
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Urine complete examination (UCE)
- Serum calcium levels
- Serum parathyroid hormone levels
- CT- scan, MRI, and USG (Ultrasonography) to assess the size, site, and extent the of the parathyroid carcinoma
- FNA (Fine needle aspiration biopsy of the tumor cells)