Solitary parathyroid adenoma: a rare cause of primary hyperparathyroidism in children.

Abstract

Solitary parathyroid adenoma is a rare cause of primary hyperparathyroidism in children. We report the cases of four children, aged 7 to 14 years old, who presented with a variety of symptoms (growth retardation, glomerulonephritis, pathological fracture, mood swings). Diagnosis was based on clinical examination, imaging, and biochemical analysis. Treatment consisted of surgical excision of the adenoma. As diagnosis was delayed in all four patients, we recommend systematically checking serum calcium levels in children with certain nonspecific symptoms. Adenoma resection usually restores normal serum calcium levels and, hence, avoids further complications.