Can hypercalcemia be prevented?
Hypercalcemia cannot be prevented, but early detection can both allow for normalization of calcium levels and lead to an early work-up to define the cause. If there is a known family history of hypercalcemia or hyperparathyroidism, it is worth mentioning this to the health care practitioner; together the patient and health care practitioner can determine if screening is warranted. Hypercalcemia at a glance • Calcium is important for bone strength, as well as muscle and nerve function • Calcium levels in the bloodstream are regulated by PTH, vitamin D, and calcitonin • Hypercalcemia can vary in severity and in chronicity • The main cause of hypercalcemia is hyperparathyroidism • Malignancies may be associated with hypercalcemia, and the presence of hypercalcemia usually heralds a worse prognosis • The signs and symptoms of hypercalcemia can be remembered by the phrase “moans, stones, groans, and bones.
