[B-scan sonography for tumour localisation in hyperparathyroidism (author's transl)].

Thirty-four patients with known primary, secondary or tertiary hyperparathyroidism were examined sonographically in order to localise the enlarged glands. Of 40 tumours found at operation, 27 (67%) could be demonstrated sonographically as oval or round structures with low echoes. The smallest tumour diagnosed pre-operatively was 10 x 5 x 4 mm. Sonography is useless for adenomas in the mediastinum. Sonographic localisation is desirable before primary operations for hyperparathyroidism, although it is not indispensable for the experienced surgeon. Sonography is essential before surgery for recurrences and should be performed before CT, arteriography or selective parathormone sampling.