Parathyroid Disease Diagnosis

Diagnosing parathyroid disease can be challenging. It is important to see an expert with a high level of experience in recognizing it. Our endocrinologists and pathologists specialize in parathyroid disease diagnosis, and they are among the most experienced and skilled in the nation.

Biopsy is generally not indicated for either the benign or cancerous parathyroid tumors. Hypercalcemia and fatigue are usually the most common signs of parathyroid disorders.

If you have symptoms that may signal parathyroid disease, your doctor will examine you and ask questions about your medical history. One or more of the following tests may be used to find out if you have cancer and if it has spread.

These tests also may be used to find out if treatment is working. If you have parathyroid cancer, tests may be done to see if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Hyperparathyroidism Testing

Blood tests

Urine tests

Imaging tests, which may include:

• CT or CAT (computed axial tomography) scans
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans
• Ultrasound
• X-ray
• Bone density test
  

Sestamibi scan: A small amount of radioactive chemical is injected into a vein. If the parathyroid is overactive, the chemical will collect in the gland and show up brightly on a special camera.

Learn more about parathyroid disease treatment.