Primary hyperparathyroidism and osteoporosis. A case report.

A case of osteoporosis secondary to primary hyperparathyroidism is reported. A 55-year-old woman presented with a history of persistent lumbar backache for 3 years; numerous radiographs taken during this period had shown 'osteoporosis in keeping with age'. Referral to the Endocrine Clinic to evaluate the osteoporosis resulted in baseline investigations which revealed a raised serum calcium level, further investigation of which led to the diagnosis of primary hyperparathyroidism. Recent studies have shown that, over the past two decades, diffuse undermineralization of the bones (osteopenia) is the most common radiological feature in primary hyperparathyroidism.