Management of acute hypercalcemia
Article Abstract:
Many patients with cancer or hyperparathyroidism suffer from hypercalcemia, or abnormally high blood levels of calcium. Hypercalcemia is caused by hormonal changes that increase the reabsorption of bone into the blood, and can affect the gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular system, kidneys and central nervous system. Patients with severe hypercalcemia should be treated immediately with intravenous transfusion of saline solution and with a diuretic. They should also be treated with drugs to decrease the reabsorption of bone into the blood. Drugs that decrease bone reabsorption include the bisphosphonates, the glucocorticoids, plicamycin, calcitonin, gallium nitrate and intravenous sodium phosphate. Other drugs used to treat hypercalcemia include prostaglandins and amifostine. Some patients may undergo dialysis to lower blood levels of calcium. Treatment of patients with hypercalcemia may vary depending on its severity and underlying cause. The underlying condition that is the cause of hypercalcemia should be treated to prevent its recurrence.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1992
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Asymptomatic primary hyperparathyroidism
Article Abstract:
A less common presentation of asymptomatic primary hyperparathyroidism is characterized by a normal serum calcium level but an elevated parathyroid hormone level. The causes and the remedies of asymptomatic primary hyperparathyroidism are presented.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 2004
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Mechanisms of anabolic therapies for osteoporosis
Article Abstract:
The mechanisms of polypeptide anabolic agents and strontium ranelate as potential therapeutic options for osteoporosis are studied.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 2007
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