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Long‐Term Lithium Therapy Leading to Hyperparathyroidism: A Case Report
Author(s) -
Rizwan Mian M.,
Perrier Nancy D.
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
perspectives in psychiatric care
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.538
H-Index - 35
eISSN - 1744-6163
pISSN - 0031-5990
DOI - 10.1111/j.1744-6163.2009.00201.x
Subject(s) - lithium (medication) , lithium therapy , medicine , hyperparathyroidism , quality of life (healthcare) , intensive care medicine , primary hyperparathyroidism , pediatrics , nursing , bipolar disorder
PURPOSE. This paper reviews the effect of chronic lithium therapy on serum calcium level and parathyroid glands, its pathogenesis, and treatment options. We examined the case of a lithium‐treated patient who had recurrent hypercalcemia to better understand the disease process.CONCLUSION. Primary hyperparathyroidism is a rare but potentially life‐threatening side effect of long‐term lithium therapy. Careful patient selection and long‐term follow‐up can reduce morbidity.PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS. As much as 15% of lithium‐treated patients become hypercalcemic. By routinely monitoring serum calcium levels, healthcare providers can improve the quality of life of this patient group.