Parathyroid Disorders in Children: Physiology, Pharmacology, and Practical Management Considerations.

Ramin Jamshidi

Journal: Advances in pediatrics 2026;73(1):213-224

PMID: 42481091

Abstract

Parathyroid glands regulate calcium and phosphate homeostasis through the production of parathyroid hormone. Pediatric parathyroid disease is uncommon but can have severe physiologic consequences. This is true of both hyperparathyroidism and hypoparathyroidism. Robust understanding of these disorders is supported by knowledge of underlying physiology, relevant laboratory analyses, imaging, and pharmacology. Technological advancements in intraoperative visualization/identification and parathyroid imaging may significantly influence future care. As these are quite uncommon disorders in the pediatric population, physicians or centers with limited experience may benefit from consultation and collaboration with larger pediatric centers where multidisciplinary approaches are undertaken and greater experience can be shared.

Address: Department of Pediatric Surgery, Phoenix Children's, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Department of Surgery & Child Health, Creighton University School of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Department of Surgery, University of Arizona School of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ, USA. Electronic address: [email protected].

DOI: 10.1016/j.yapd.2026.03.001

MeSH Terms: Humans, Hypoparathyroidism, Child, Parathyroid Glands, Parathyroid Diseases, Parathyroid Hormone, Hyperparathyroidism