Jayesh Doshi1, Hugh Wheatley. 1. Department of Otolaryngology, Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, Gloucester, United Kingdom. jayeshdoshi@hotmail.com
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Parathyroidectomy is increasingly being performed by otolaryngology units. The well-known metabolic sequela is hypocalcaemia; it may be transient or permanent depending on presence and/or activity of any residual parathyroid tissue. A more unusual metabolic sequela of a parathyroidectomy is the development of pseudogout. We summarize the clinical presentation and pathophysiology of pseudogout following parathyroidectomy. METHODS: We present a case of a 71-year-old woman who developed pseudogout following removal of a parathyroid adenoma. RESULTS: Although infrequent, pseudogout predominantly occurs in the immediate postoperative period. CONCLUSION: We propose that otolaryngology units should be more aware of the unusual sequelae of pseudogout following parathyroidectomy; it can lead to a prompt referral and commencement of early treatment. (c) 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
BACKGROUND: Parathyroidectomy is increasingly being performed by otolaryngology units. The well-known metabolic sequela is hypocalcaemia; it may be transient or permanent depending on presence and/or activity of any residual parathyroid tissue. A more unusual metabolic sequela of a parathyroidectomy is the development of pseudogout. We summarize the clinical presentation and pathophysiology of pseudogout following parathyroidectomy. METHODS: We present a case of a 71-year-old woman who developed pseudogout following removal of a parathyroid adenoma. RESULTS: Although infrequent, pseudogout predominantly occurs in the immediate postoperative period. CONCLUSION: We propose that otolaryngology units should be more aware of the unusual sequelae of pseudogout following parathyroidectomy; it can lead to a prompt referral and commencement of early treatment. (c) 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.