Treatment:

Correcting the calcium level and the underlying problem can bring the PTH levels back to normal.

Treatment may involve:

• A special form of vitamin D (requires a doctor's prescription) if you have low vitamin D levels
• Surgery for cancer

Patients with chronic kidney failure are usually given calcium and vitamin D, and are told to avoid phosphate in their diet. Dialysis, a kidney transplant, or parathyroid surgery may be needed.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome depends on the underlying cause.

Complications:

Persons with kidney problems may continue to produce too much parathyroid hormone even when their calcium level is back to normal. This is called "tertiary hyperthyroidism." Parathyroid surgery may be needed.

Other complications include:

• Increased risk of broken bones
• Renal osteodystrophy (a condition that causes bone pain, weakness, and fractures)

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of this disorder, particularly if you are being treated for kidney disease.