Cardiac dysfunction in primary hypoparathyroidism. A report of 3 cases.
During 1981 - 1986 3 women with similar complaints were seen. Their symptoms were tetany and congestive cardiac failure (CCF) without a previous history of cardiac disease or alcohol abuse. One patient did have a history of cataract removal and epilepsy and all 3 had ECGs showing prolonged Q-T intervals and echocardiograms consistent with the diagnosis of cardiomyopathy. Biochemical profiles were similar: hypocalcaemia, hyperphosphataemia and normal serum urea levels. Parathyroid hormone levels were inappropriately low in all 3 cases. The tetany and CCF responded to calcium +/- magnesium infusions together with diuretics and in 2 cases, digoxin therapy. All 3 patients are well at present, and are controlled on 1-alpha-hydroxyvitamin D3 and calcium supplements.
Huddle
K R
KR
Department of Medicine, Baragwanath Hospital, Johannesburg.
D000328:Adult; D004562:Electrocardiography; D005260:Female; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D006996:Hypocalcemia / Q000150:complications; D007011:Hypoparathyroidism / Q000150:complications*; D008875:Middle Aged