Immobilization hypercalcemia in the elderly.

Usually, hypercalcemia is associated with malignancy, primary hyperparathyroidism, and chronic granulomatous disorders. When a usual work-up fails to identify an etiology for hypercalcemia, immobilization--a proven but often overlooked risk factor--may be the underlying cause. Rehabilitative exercises and medications are used to correct this problem. Heightened awareness of immobilization as a possible cause of hypercalcemia may avoid unnecessary and invasive examinations and life-threatening complications.