The term parathyroidoma is defined as:
Group of answer choices
tumor around the thyroid gland
excessive hormone production of the parathyroid glands
tumor of the parathyroid glands
inflammation around the thyroid gland
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is tumor of the parathyroid glands.
A parathyroidoma refers to a tumor that develops in one of the parathyroid glands. These small glands, typically four in number, are located behind the thyroid gland in the neck. They play a critical role in regulating calcium levels in the body by producing parathyroid hormone (PTH). The parathyroid glands adjust calcium levels by affecting bone resorption, calcium reabsorption in the kidneys, and the activation of vitamin D in the intestines.
A parathyroidoma is most commonly benign (non-cancerous), but it can cause a range of problems due to excessive secretion of parathyroid hormone. This overproduction of PTH leads to hyperparathyroidism, a condition in which the blood calcium levels become elevated. This imbalance can cause a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, bone pain, kidney stones, and abnormal heart rhythms.
There are two types of hyperparathyroidism: primary hyperparathyroidism, which occurs when the parathyroid glands themselves are overactive, typically due to a tumor (parathyroidoma), and secondary hyperparathyroidism, which is a compensatory response to low calcium levels due to other conditions, such as kidney disease.
In some cases, parathyroidoma can be identified during routine blood tests when elevated calcium levels are found. Treatment often involves surgically removing the tumor to restore normal calcium balance. This surgery can help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications such as bone fractures or kidney damage.
Would you like me to generate an image showing the location of the parathyroid glands and how a parathyroidoma might affect them?