Diagnosing Parathyroid Cancer
Parathyroid cancer, or parathyroid carcinoma, is a rare cancer that begins in the parathyroid glands, which regulate calcium levels through the release of parathyroid hormone. It occurs when abnormal cells in these glands multiply and form a tumor. To diagnose parathyroid cancer, several examinations, screening tests, and procedures may be done. These include:
- Physical exam and health history: During a physical exam, a healthcare professional will check for any signs of disease, such as lumps or anything unusual. They will also take a detailed history of your health habits and past illnesses and treatments.
- Blood tests: Blood chemistry studies can be performed to measure the levels of certain substances released into the blood by organs and tissues in the body. In the case of parathyroid cancer, the calcium level in the blood is checked. An abnormal amount of calcium can be an indicator of disease.
- Parathyroid hormone test: This procedure involves checking a blood sample for the amount of parathyroid hormone released by the parathyroid glands. An elevated level of parathyroid hormone can be a sign of parathyroid cancer.
- Sestamibi scan: A type of radionuclide scan called a sestamibi scan is used to locate an overactive parathyroid gland. This scan helps identify if there is an abnormal growth or tumor in the parathyroid gland.
- CT scan (CAT scan): A CT scan is an imaging test that creates detailed pictures of areas inside the body from different angles. It can help doctors see the size and exact location of tumors, including whether parathyroid cancer has spread to other parts of the body such as the lungs, liver, bone, heart, pancreas, or lymph nodes.
- Ultrasound exam: This procedure uses high-energy sound waves to create echoes that form a picture of body tissues called a sonogram. It helps identify areas where cancer cells are growing and can provide information about the size and location of tumors.
- Angiogram: An angiogram is a procedure used to examine blood vessels and blood flow. A contrast dye is injected into a blood vessel, and x-rays are taken to detect any blockages or abnormalities.
- Venous sampling: In cases where imaging tests do not show which parathyroid gland is overactive, blood samples may be taken from veins near each parathyroid gland to determine which one is producing too much parathyroid hormone (PTH).
- Tumor biopsy: To confirm a diagnosis of parathyroid cancer, a pathologist examines surgically removed tumors under a microscope.
To determine the type, severity, or stage of parathyroid cancer, additional examinations, tests, or procedures may be performed:
- Staging tests: Imaging tests like CT scans help check if cancer has spread to other areas, such as the lungs, liver, bones, heart, pancreas, or lymph nodes.
- Histopathology examination: This test analyzes tissue samples from biopsies or surgery to see if the cancer has spread to nearby organs or lymph nodes.
- Prognostic factors assessment: Certain findings, like cancer spreading around nerves, lymph vessels, or blood vessels, can affect the outlook and guide treatment options.
Specialists who may be involved in diagnosing parathyroid cancer include endocrinologists, surgeons, radiologists, and pathologists.
It's important to note that while these examinations and tests can provide valuable information for diagnosis and staging purposes, only healthcare professionals can make an accurate diagnosis based on these results. If you suspect you have parathyroid cancer or have any concerns about your health, it's always best to consult with a medical professional who can guide you through the appropriate diagnostic process tailored to your specific situation.