Acid-base and electrolyte disturbances in patients with hypercalcemia.

BACKGROUND

In the present study, we analyzed acid-base and electrolyte disturbances in hypercalcemic patients to determine the principal causes of hypercalcemia.

METHODS

We studied a total of 76 hypercalcemic patients and 91 healthy individuals. Acid-base and electrolyte parameters were determined before any therapeutic intervention.

RESULTS

Hyperparathyroidism and neoplasias were the most common causes of hypercalcemia. Hypercalcemic patients had increased serum urea and creatinine levels, a higher urea/creatinine ratio, and a higher rate of acid-base disorders, but lower serum albumin, potassium, chloride, phosphorus, and magnesium concentrations than those found in the control subjects. Notably, significant differences in acid-base balance and electrolyte concentrations were evident between patients with hyperparathyroidism and patients with cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Primary hyperparathyroidism and neoplasia are the most common causes of hypercalcemia. A wide array of concurrent acid-base and electrolyte disorders may be evident in hypercalcemic patients. Differences in these laboratory parameters are helpful in diagnostic workup.