Hypercalcaemia Flashcards
1
Q
When should hypercalcaemia always be in the differential?
A
In patients with vague abdominal symptoms with KNOWN metastatic carcinoma, particularly those prone to spreading to bone
2
Q
Which metastatic cancers have a tendency to spread to the bone?
A
Thyroid
Breast + Bronchus
Kidney + Prostate
Myeloma
3
Q
What may cause hypercalcaemia?
A
Metastases to bone
Primary hyperparathyroidism
4
Q
What does hypercalcaemia present with/cause and what is the phrase to remember these?
A
- Bone metabolism
- Abdominal pain
- Psychiatric symptoms
- Increased frequency of calcium stones
“Bones, groans, moans, and stones”
5
Q
Treatment for hypercalcaemia + which drug class is immediately useful here?
A
Supportive - good rehydration
Identification and treatment of underlying cause where possible
- bisphosphonates may be used to lower serum calcium
