Renal transplantation and secondary hyperparathyroidism.

Secondary hyperparathyroidism (2'HPT) improves after renal transplantation (RTx) along with recovered function of the renal allograft. However, normal renal function does not last long due to rejection, drug-induced nephrotoxic nepthropathy, or recurrence of post-transplant glomerulonephritis. Therefore, improved calcium and phosphate metabolism, and parathyroid function after RTx fluctuate in accordance with the function of the renal allograft. In cases with severe 2'HPT, parathyroidectomy should be performed before RTx because hypercalcemia due to secondary or tertiary hyperparathyroidism aggravates the renal allograft function. In the follow-up of mild 2'HPT after RTx, hypercalcemia and vascular calcification should be monitored carefully by serum parathyroid hormone, calcium and phosphate concentrations, alkaline phosphatase activity, and bone X-ray film. If serum calcium level exceeds 12 mg/dl, parathyroidectomy (PTx) should be performed to prevent the acceleration of vascular calcification. Total PTx with forearm allograft is a preferred surgical procedure for 2'HPT even after RTx.