Hypercalcemia
Our hypercalcemia specialists in New York are here for you. Our team of endocrine doctors near you are dedicated to supporting your success and ensuring that you regain your metabolic health and overall wellness.
What Is Hypercalcemia?
Hypercalcemia refers to high serum calcium levels (total Ca > 10.5 mg/dL or ionized Ca2+ > 5.25 mg/dL). Hypercalcemia is a relatively common clinical problem. It results when the entry of calcium into the circulation exceeds the excretion of calcium into the urine or deposition in bone. This occurs when there is accelerated bone resorption, excessive gastrointestinal absorption, or decreased renal excretion of calcium. In some disorders, however, more than one mechanism may be involved.
Hypercalcemia can have a wide range of symptoms. In mild cases, it may cause no noticeable symptoms, but in severe cases, it can be life-threatening. Common signs include kidney stones, bone pain, joint and muscle aches, fractures, constipation, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. It can also lead to peptic ulcers and pancreatitis. Neuropsychiatric symptoms like anxiety, depression, fatigue, and confusion are also possible. Other symptoms include muscle weakness and heart rhythm problems. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention.
What Are the Causes of Hypercalcemia?
Hypercalcemia is often caused by hyperparathyroidism and certain cancers. Other important causes include thiazide diuretics, excessive calcium supplements, prolonged immobilization, and inherited conditions like familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia (FHH). It can also result from medications like lithium, adrenal insufficiency, multiple myeloma, excessive vitamin D intake, and diseases like sarcoidosis. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment.
What Are the Treatments and Therapies for Hypercalcemia?
Treatment for hypercalcemia depends on its severity and symptoms. For mild hypercalcemia (calcium <12 mg/dL), patients typically do not require immediate treatment but should avoid factors that worsen it. For severe hypercalcemia (calcium >14 mg/dL) or if symptoms like lethargy or confusion occur, aggressive therapy is necessary. This includes intravenous (IV) fluids, IV calcitonin, and IV bisphosphonates. In refractory cases or when bisphosphonates are not suitable, denosumab may be considered, with careful monitoring due to potential side effects. Regular monitoring and tailored treatment are essential for managing hypercalcemia effectively.
How Can Well by Messer Help You with Hypercalcemia?
At Well By Messer, our hypercalcemia doctors provide a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment for the condition. We confirm the severity of hypercalcemia using ionized or corrected calcium measurements, and we immediately treat symptomatic cases. We conduct a diagnostic workup, including volume status assessment, ECG, and electrolyte checks. To distinguish causes, initial tests include intact PTH. Further tests assess urine calcium, PTHrP, and vitamin D levels for underlying conditions like tumors. Our team ensures a tailored treatment plan. This approach promotes optimal health and well-being for our patients.
Meet the Well by Messer (WBM) Team
Under the leadership of top endocrinologist in New York, Dr. Caroline Messer, our caring and talented team of board-certified endocrinologists, psychologists, nutritionists, and personal trainers will be dedicated to supporting your success and regaining your metabolic health at our metabolic centers in Manhattan.
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