Hypercalcemia

Medical Review

Written by: Dr. Von Chiao Wen Doctor of Medicine (MD), N.I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University

Reviewed by: Dr. Lee Chin Meng Doctor of Medicine (MD), Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE)

Overview of Hypercalcemia

Hypercalcemia is a condition where the level of calcium in the blood is beyond the normal range and it can lead to weakening of bones, formation of kindey stones and affects the functions of heart and brain

Signs and Symptoms of Hypercalcemia

Abdominal pain, Vomiting, Constipation, Polyuria, Polydipsia, Anorexia, Weight loss, Lethargy, Weakness, Hypertension, Confusion, Pyrexia, Renal stones, Renal failure

Common Causes of Hypercalcemia

Malignancy (most common), Primary hyperparathyroidism, Sarcoidosis, Vitamin D intoxication, Thyrotoxicosis

Risk Factors of Hypercalcemia

Malignancy, Use of thiazide diuretics, Immobilization

Investigation Techniques for Hypercalcemia

Blood test, Parathyroid hormone level, Electrolytes (chloride, potassium, phosphate), Protein electrophoresis, Chest X-rays, CT scan, Mammogram, Isotope bone scan