Question

Scenario: This is not the only tumor that Bernie has had surgically removed during his life. A few years prior, an abnormal blood calcium level was detected when Bernie had a blood test (for an unrelated health condition). Further investigations were undertaken, and he was diagnosed with a benign (non-cancerous) tumor in one of his parathyroid glands that was causing excessive secretion of parathyroid hormone.

Explain how Bernie's overactive parathyroid gland caused the disturbance in blood calcium homeostasis and predict the effect this had on his skeleton and risk of fractures? we have to clearly explain your reasoning for the predicted changes in the skeletal system and consequences of those changes. (We DO NOT need to discuss the role of hormone calcitonin in blood calcium homeostasis)

Answer 1

Bernie's hyperparathyroidism led to excessive calcium reabsorption from bones, reduced bone density, and an increased risk of fractures due to the overproduction of PTH. This condition also increased blood calcium levels, potentially causing skeletal deformities.

Step-by-step explanation:

Bernie's overactive parathyroid gland caused a condition known as hyperparathyroidism, which is characterized by the overproduction of parathyroid hormone (PTH). This condition leads to excessive calcium reabsorption from the bones and an increase in blood calcium levels, a state known as hypercalcemia. PTH triggers osteoclasts to degrade bone tissue, thereby releasing calcium into the bloodstream, which can significantly reduce bone density and increase the risk of fractures and skeletal deformities. In addition, the inhibition of osteoblasts, which are responsible for bone formation, contributes to the weakening of bone structure. Enhanced reabsorption of calcium in the kidneys and increased dietary calcium absorption in the intestines, both stimulated by PTH, further contribute to hypercalcemia.

The consequences for Bernie's skeletal system were likely a reduction in bone density and increased fragility, leading to a higher risk of spontaneous fractures. Skeletal deformities could also occur as a result of the bones losing structural integrity due to the ongoing loss of calcium. Without sufficient bone strength, even minor incidents could result in fractures, compromising his overall skeletal health.