Primary hyperparathyroidism--is mild disease worth treating?

Most patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) are asymptomatic at presentation. This presents the dilemma whether to treat surgically or manage by conservative follow-up. This article covers the risks of managing mild PHPT conservatively. Some of these risks are well established, for example worsening of bone disease and increased risk of nephrolithiasis. Others, such as effects on cardiovascular function or the risk of malignancy are more controversial. These factors are critical to decisions relating to surgical or conservative management of mild PHPT.