The problem with these tumors is not predominantly the tumor itself, which grows rather slowly, but the marked elevation in calcium levels, which produces a condition (hypercalcemia) that is difficult to control medically and may eventually be fatal.
For this reason, aggressive surgical removal of bulk disease or metastatic disease has been recommended. Unfortunately, this type of surgery is not always possible, because of widespread metastasis . Better results are obtained when a surgeon experienced with hyperparathyroidism is involved.
A variety of medical means can inhibit the action of parathyroid hormone and improve the hypercalcemia , including the use of calcitonin, mithramycin or diphosphonates.
