Symptoms:

Osteitis fibrosa may cause bone pain or tenderness. There may be fractures (breaks) in the arms, legs, or spine, or other bone problems.

Hyperparathyroidism may cause kidney stones, kidney problems, nausea, constipation, fatigue, and weakness.

Signs and tests:

Blood tests show a high level of calcium, parathyroid hormone, and alkaline phosphatase (a bone chemical). Phosphorus may be low.

X-rays may show thin bones, fractures, bowing, and cysts. Teeth x-rays may also be abnormal.

A bone x-ray may be done. People with hyperparathyroidism are more likely to have osteopenia (thin bones) or osteoporosis (very thin bones) than to have full-blown osteitis fibrosa.