Serum parathyroid hormone and alkaline phosphatase as predictors of calcium requirements after total parathyroidectomy for hypocalcemia in secondary hyperparathyroidism.

BACKGROUND

To prevent hypocalcemia, this study examined the efficiency of a calcium supplement formula guided by predicted calcium requirement in patients with renal failure after parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation.

METHODS

In the first phase, a protocol was followed whereby intravenous calcium gluconate was repeatedly titrated based on serum calcium levels in 22 patients with parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation. In the second phase, the first equation protocol was applied in 74 patients with parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation and revised.

RESULTS

There is a significant correlation between the postoperative amount of calcium requirement and preoperative serum alkaline phosphatase level (r = 0.442; P < .001) and parathyroid hormone level (PTH; r = 0.889; P < .001). For prediction of insufficient calcium supplement, the cutoff point of PTH and alkaline phosphatase level values were calculated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and modified equations were developed by regression analysis.

CONCLUSION

The preoperative PTH and alkaline phosphatase levels can predict postoperative calcium requirements, such that equations of calcium supplement allow the management of hypocalcemia efficiently in patients on dialysis after parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation.