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Endocrine glands
Endocrine glands
Parathyroid glands
Parathyroid glands
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Parathyroid adenoma

Definition:

Parathyroid adenomas are benign (noncancerous) tumors of the parathyroid glands, which are located in the neck and help to regulate calcium metabolism.



Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
This tumor is the most common cause of hyperparathyroidism, which causes elevated levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia). Parathyroid adenomas are generally caused by genetic mutations. Women over 60 are at highest risk. If your head or neck has been exposed to radiation, this can also increase risk.

Review Date: 7/29/2002
Reviewed By: Todd T. Brown, M.D., Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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