How common is hypercalcaemia in people with cancer?
Hypercalcaemia is not uncommon in people with cancer; 10% to 20% have hypercalcaemia (1, 2). The excess blood calcium is from the breakdown of bone by cancer (2). Hormones released by the tumor cells cause bone reabsorption by special cells called osteoclasts (4). Bone metastases release chemicals around their area to stimulate osteoclasts to re-absorb bone (4). Symptoms of hypercalcaemia The symptoms of hypercalcaemia may be vague and nonspecific (4). They are often confused with symptoms from the underlying tumor (4). Gastrointestinal symptoms included nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite (3, 4). The nausea and vomiting can lead to dehydration (not enough water in the body), making the hypercalcaemia more severe (4). Neurologic symptoms include depression and fatigue (tiredness) (4). Other symptoms include itching and bone pain (4) If you have any of these symptoms, you should ask your doctor to check the level of calcium in your blood. Treatment of hypercalcaemia The treatment for
