PROFILE OF PATIENTS OPERATED ON FOR PRIMARY HYPERPARATHYROIDISM AT CHRIS HANI BARAGWANATH ACADEMIC HOSPITAL

Introduction: The presentation of primary hyperparathyroidism is protean, making the early diagnosis difficult. The routine use of automated calcium analyser has solved the problem where it is available. This is not the case for Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic hospital (CHBAH), where, according to our observations, the diagnosis is still a challenge and often made in the complication-related stage. Worldwide, women are more affected than men, especially after menopause. The morbidity associated with hyperparathyroidism can be disastrous for a condition that can be readily treated. The aim of this study is to assess the profile of patients operated on for primary hyperparathyroidism. Objective: To determine the clinical presentation, the calcium level, and the cause of primary hyperparathyroidism Method: Review of all patients operated on for primary hyperparathyroidism at CHBAH from 2013 to 2019. Results: Most patients presented with various conditions not directly related to hyperparathyroidism and had mild to moderate hypercalcemia. Over 90% of hypercalcemia resolved post-parathyroidectomy, and parathyroid adenoma was the most common histopathological report. Conclusion: Primary hyperparathyroidism was mainly established in the workup of patients who presented with various conditions and was associated with significant comorbidities. Most cases were due to parathyroid adenoma that was successfully treated with parathyroidectomy.