Juvenile hyperparathyroidism

What is ... ?: 

 This condition is one of abnormally increased activity of the parathyroid glands, which are important in the regulation of calcium and phosphorus in the body. The excess of parathyroid hormone causes problems in the bones and kidneys.

How is ... inherited?: 

The condition is believed to be inherited as an autosomal recessive trait.

What does ... mean to your dog & you?: 

 Affected dogs will have stunted growth, increased urination and drinking, and muscle weakness.

How is ... diagnosed?: 

 Your veterinarian will do laboratory blood tests to determine the cause of your dog's stunted growth, usually the most obvious sign of this disorder.

How is ... treated?: 

 There are 4 parathyroid glands, 2 associated with each thyroid gland in the neck region. One to 3 of these can be removed surgically to correct the hyperparathyroidism but leave enough parathyroid tissue to carry out normal functions.

For the veterinarian: 

 CLINICAL PATHOLOGY: hypophosphatemia with increased fractional clearance of phosphorus, elevated plasma PTH, hypercalcemia. R/O hyper- or hypovitaminosis D, bone neoplasia, and osteomyelitis.

RADIOGRAPHS may show decreased bone density.

Breeding advice: 

 Parents of affected dogs should not be bred as they are carriers of the disorder. There is a 50 per cent chance that siblings are carriers as well.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS DISORDER, PLEASE SEE YOUR VETERINARIAN.

Resources: 

 Greco, D.S. 1995. Pediatric Endocrinology. In J.D. Bonaguara and R.W. Kirk (eds.) Kirk's Current Veterinary Therapy XII Small Animal Practice. p 346-351. W.B. Saunders Co., Toronto.


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