Hypoparathyroidism

Hypoparathyroidism is when the parathyroid glands don’t make enough parathyroid hormone. The parathyroid glands are four tiny glands on the back of the thyroid gland. The hormone they make helps manage levels of calcium in the bloodstream. Low levels of the hormone lead to low levels of calcium. This can lead to muscle spasms and cramping, called tetany.

Causes of Hypoparathyroidism

Causes can include:

• Accidental removal of part or all of a parathyroid gland during thyroid surgery
• A baby born without parathyroid glands, with underdeveloped parathyroid glands or with the inability to make or use the parathyroid hormone
• Autoimmune disorders that damage or destroy the parathyroid glands

In some cases, the cause is unknown.

Children Who Are at Risk for Hypoparathyroidism

A child is at risk for hypoparathyroidism if they:

• Have had a previous surgery on the neck or thyroid gland
• Have an autoimmune disease
• Have a family history of hypoparathyroidism
• Were born prematurely

Symptoms of Hypoparathyroidism

Symptoms can occur a bit differently in each child. They can include:

• Numbness around the mouth or in hands or feet
• Uncontrollable, painful spasms of the face, hands, arms, and feet
• Seizures
• Low blood pressure
• Unstable emotions, anxiety, or depression
• Dental problems
• Coarse, brittle hair, and dry skin

The symptoms of hypoparathyroidism can be like other health conditions. Make sure your child sees their doctor for a diagnosis.

Diagnosing Hypoparathyroidism

The doctor will ask about your child’s symptoms and health history. They may also ask about your family’s health history. Your child will have a physical exam. Blood tests will likely be done to measure the levels of calcium and parathyroid hormone in the blood.

Treating Hypoparathyroidism

Your child's doctor will consider the child's age, overall health, and other factors when advising treatment. Your child may need to see a pediatric endocrinologist. This is a doctor who specializes in treating children with hormone problems.

Treatment may include calcium given through an IV or through the mouth. This can give relief of symptoms right away. Your child may also need to take vitamin D, magnesium supplements, or both for life. If these measures are inadequate, some children have been treated with injections of parathyroid hormone. This is a treatment that is usually reserved for adults with osteoporosis or low calcium levels.

Possible Complications of Hypoparathyroidism

If untreated, the condition can cause serious complications, such as:

• Uncontrollable, painful muscle spasms
• Seizures
• Kidney damage
• Heart failure
• Stunted growth
• Dental defects
• Cataracts

How to Help Your Child Live With Hypoparathyroidism

Hypoparathyroidism may be temporary (transient) or permanent. Temporary hypoparathyroidism may be related to infection, illness, or stress and may eventually improve. Certain types of permanent hypoparathyroidism may be associated with other medical conditions. Work with your child's doctors to create an ongoing plan to manage your child’s condition.