PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is the initial medical treatment for hyperparathyroidism?

1. Thiazide diuretics

2. IV fluids and furosemide

3. Surgery

4. Calcium supplementation

The correct answer is: IV fluids and furosemide

In the context of hyperparathyroidism, the initial medical treatment often involves addressing hypercalcemia, which is a common consequence of the disorder. IV fluids and furosemide are utilized to help manage high calcium levels in the blood. The administration of IV fluids provides hydration, which promotes renal excretion of calcium. Furosemide, a loop diuretic, further enhances calcium excretion through the urine. This approach is particularly important in acute situations where hypercalcemia is severe and symptomatic, as it helps to quickly reduce calcium levels and mitigate potential complications such as renal failure or cardiac issues. While thiazide diuretics, surgery, and calcium supplementation are relevant to the management of hyperparathyroidism in other contexts, they are not the initial medical treatment specifically aimed at quickly alleviating hypercalcemia—a critical step in managing the condition. Thiazide diuretics would actually increase calcium reabsorption in the kidneys and potentially worsen hypercalcemia. Surgery is often considered for definitive treatment but is not the immediate intervention for acute management of hypercalcemia. Calcium supplementation could exacerbate the condition by increasing calcium levels when hypercalcemia is already present.