Lithium-Induced Parathyroid Dysfunction: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Abstract

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French

OBJECTIVE:

Twenty-six cases of lithium-induced hyperparathyroidism have been reported in the literature. This article describes an additional case that illustrates current management recommendations.

DESIGN:

Case report. Clinical presentation and proposed mechanisms of the suspected drug-induced effect are discussed.

CONCLUSIONS:

Serum calcium concentrations should be determined before and periodically during long-term lithium carbonate therapy. Discontinuation of therapy in patients who develop lithium-induced parathyroid dysfunction generally corrects calcium and parathyroid hormone concentrations. Surgery is indicated in patients with complications of hyperparathyroidism.

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