Multiple fractures due to hungry bone syndrome following parathyroidectomy: a clinical case report and review of literature

Abstract

Hungry bone syndrome (HBS) is defined as prolonged hypocalcemia caused by a sudden decrease in parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels after parathyroidectomy (PTX). Multiple fractures after PTX due to HBS in an end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patient on chronic hemodialysis (HD) are challenging and rare medical conditions presented in this study. A 42-year-old ESRD patient on HD 3 times a week presented to Shariati Hospital, Tehran, Iran, complaining of worsening bone pain and loss of appetite. Laboratory data revealed an intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) concentration of 2500 pg/mL, an alkaline phosphatase (Alp) level of 4340 IU/L, a phosphorus (P) level of 9 mg/dL, and a calcium (Ca) concentration of 7.2 mg/dL. Sestamibi scintigraphy revealed parathyroid adenoma. The findings suggested tertiary hyperparathyroidism (HPT-III), and the patient was scheduled for total PTX. Approximately one month after surgery, the patient was referred due to convulsions, leg mobility problems, and worsening bone pain. There was bilateral femoral ecchymosis. The Ca concentration was 5.8 mg/dL, and radiological evaluations revealed multiple skeletal fractures. HBS after PTX was suggested for this patient. After several days of hospitalization, he suffered subcutaneous emphysema followed by rib fractures and passed away. Multiple fractures after PTX due to HBS following HPT-III in ESRD patients are rare and demanding, highlighting the necessity of timely diagnosis and management of patients with HPT-III. Severe hypocalcemia following PTX can cause skeletal disorders. However, the surgical treatment of parathyroid adenomas may be more important than the risk of complications associated with bone health.