Parathyroid glands make parathyroid hormone (PTH), which helps the body keep the right balance of calcium and phosphorous. Parathyroid glands are located near the thyroid gland in the neck. However, the parathyroid glands are separate from the thyroid.
If the parathyroid glands make too much PTH, hyperparathyroidism results and blood calcium rises. The cause may be a benign tumor or an enlarged parathyroid glands. Cancer is rarely the cause.
If the parathyroid glands make too little PTH, hypoparathyroidism results and the blood has too little calcium and too much phosphorous. Causes may include injury to the glands, endocrine disorders or an inherited condition.
Your Ohio State doctor can help determine the cause of your condition and the best course of treatment for you.