Hypoparathyroidism commonly causes which electrolyte abnormality?

Hypoparathyroidism commonly causes which electrolyte abnormality?

• A. Hyperkalemia
• B. Hypercalcemia
• C. Hyponatremia
• D. Hypocalcemia

Answer: (D)

Parathyroid hormone governs calcium balance in the body. When parathyroid function is reduced, calcium is not released from bone, not reabsorbed as efficiently in the kidneys, and not activated vitamin D is produced to boost gut absorption. The net effect is lower serum calcium, or hypocalcemia, which is the electrolyte abnormality most commonly seen with hypoparathyroidism. This low calcium state can cause tingling, muscle cramps, and other neuromuscular symptoms, and it’s often accompanied by higher phosphate levels because phosphate excretion is reduced. The other options don’t fit because they are not typical results of insufficient PTH activity.

Parathyroid hormone governs calcium balance in the body. When parathyroid function is reduced, calcium is not released from bone, not reabsorbed as efficiently in the kidneys, and not activated vitamin D is produced to boost gut absorption. The net effect is lower serum calcium, or hypocalcemia, which is the electrolyte abnormality most commonly seen with hypoparathyroidism. This low calcium state can cause tingling, muscle cramps, and other neuromuscular symptoms, and it’s often accompanied by higher phosphate levels because phosphate excretion is reduced. The other options don’t fit because they are not typical results of insufficient PTH activity.