Maternal primary hyperparathyroidism of pregnancy. Successful treatment by parathyroidectomy

R. F. Gaeke, E. L. Kaplan, M. D. Lindheimer, F. Coe and K. L. Shen

Primary hyperparathyroidism of pregnancy may result in spontaneous abortion, neonatal hypocalcemia, or neonatal tetany if appropriate treatment is not instituted. Of great importance in prevention of these complications is an awareness by physicians that this disease exists and is of clinical importance. Parathyroidectomy performed during the second trimester of pregnancy offers the best chance for fetal and neonatal survival. This operation results in little risk to either the mother or the fetus. Normal calcium homeostasis is restored to the fetus and the risk of hypocalcemia in the neonatal period is virtually eliminated.