Tumors of the parathyroid glands

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Parathyroid tumors are a common endocrine problem, but only account for a small percentage of head and neck neoplasms. The overwhelming majority are benign adenomas that present as primary hyperparathyroidism. Parathyroid carcinomas are extremely rare and usually are associated with a florid history of severe hypercalcemia. Patients with a malignant tumor are also more likely to have a palpable mass in the neck.