Endocrine cancers
Cancer types
Parathyroid cancer
Cancers of the hormone-producing glands: thyroid, adrenal and parathyroid.
Cancers of the hormone-producing glands: thyroid, adrenal and parathyroid.
This map explains parathyroid cancer step by step: what it is, the types, the tests, the stages, the treatment and its side effects.
Tap any topic on the map to read about it. Topics with an arrow open more topics.
Tap a test on the map to see why it is done.
Please wait for all the reports. Why we wait
Very high calcium (often over 14 mg/dL) and very high PTH raise suspicion of cancer. Kidney function and vitamin D are checked.
Find the abnormal gland and check whether it has grown into nearby tissue or spread to the neck nodes or lungs.
A needle biopsy is avoided, as it can spread cancer cells. The diagnosis is usually made after surgery.
CDC73 testing is advised; if positive, family members can be checked.
Before starting chemotherapy, immunotherapy or targeted therapy, these tests check that you are fit for treatment, and give a starting point to compare with later.
| Test | Why it is done |
|---|---|
| CBC (complete blood count) | Haemoglobin, white cells and platelets. Treatment can lower them. |
| RFT (kidney function) | Many medicines are cleared by the kidneys; the dose may need to change. |
| LFT (liver function) | Many medicines are processed by the liver. |
| Viral markers: HBsAg, anti-HCV, HIV | Hepatitis B can flare up during treatment. If positive, a tablet is given to prevent this. |
| Blood sugar (and HbA1c if diabetic) | Steroids given with chemotherapy can raise blood sugar. |
| ECG and 2D Echo | Check the heart rhythm and pumping before treatment, as some medicines affect the heart. |
Before immunotherapy, also:
| Test | Why it is done |
|---|---|
| Serum TSH (thyroid) | Immunotherapy can affect the thyroid gland. |
| Serum cortisol (morning sample) | Immunotherapy can affect the adrenal and pituitary glands. |
Sometimes needed, depending on your treatment:
Your doctor will choose the tests that apply to you. Some of them are repeated during treatment.
There is no standard staging for parathyroid cancer. Tap a situation on the map.
Only in the neck. Can be cured by complete surgery.
It often comes back in the neck, sometimes years later. Calcium rising again is usually the first sign.
Spread to the lungs, bones or liver.
Tap your situation on the map.
Side effects: surgery · calcium medicines
Side effects: calcium medicines
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Confusion, severe drowsiness, vomiting or extreme thirst (very high calcium), or tingling and cramps after surgery (low calcium) need urgent care.
This information is general. Your own treatment plan may be different. Please discuss it with your doctor.
Written and medically reviewed by Dr Prathyusha Eaga, MD, DM (Medical Oncology). Last reviewed: 12 October 2026. Based on NCCN and ESMO guidelines.
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