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What happens in hyperparathyroidism?

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Final answer:

Hyperparathyroidism involves elevated calcium levels in the blood due to excessive parathyroid hormone production, causing bone resorption and kidney stones, leading to decreased bone density, fractures, nervous system impairments, and potential cardiac issues in advanced stages.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hyperparathyroidism is a condition characterized by the overproduction of parathyroid hormone (PTH), leading to high serum calcium levels, low serum phosphate, bone destruction, and the formation of kidney stones. It is often caused by tumors in the parathyroid gland. This overproduction of PTH leads to an increase in calcium reabsorption from the bones, raising calcium levels in the blood, thereby causing skeletal issues such as decreased bone density, spontaneous fractures, or bone deformities. A high calcium level in the blood can also decrease cell membrane permeability to sodium, which reduces the responsiveness of the nervous system.

Moreover, calcium deposits might collect in bodily tissues and organs, impairing their functions. In advanced stages, this condition can lead to tertiary hyperparathyroidism, which involves further complications such as hypercalcaemia, renal osteodystrophy, and vascular calcification, adversely affecting cardiac function.

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