Giant Intrathyroidal Parathyroid Carcinoma Presenting as an Asymptomatic Hypercalcemia: A Case Report and Literature Review.
Ran Zheng, Jing Li, Tiantian Dong et al.
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Case in brief
A patient presented with asymptomatic hypercalcemia, which led to the discovery of a giant parathyroid carcinoma entirely located within the thyroid gland. Initially misdiagnosed as a thyroid nodule, the case highlighted markedly elevated serum calcium and parathyroid hormone levels. The condition was managed with appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic approaches following the identification of the carcinoma.
What made this case unusual
The carcinoma was entirely intrathyroidal, which is atypical for parathyroid carcinoma, and the patient exhibited no clinical symptoms despite significantly elevated serum calcium and PTH levels.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider parathyroid carcinoma in cases of unexplained hypercalcemia, even in the absence of typical symptoms or when imaging suggests a thyroid nodule.
Why it matters
This case underscores the importance of thorough evaluation in hypercalcemia cases, as atypical presentations can lead to misdiagnosis and delayed treatment.