IDIOPATHIC HYPOPARATHYROIDISM: UNUSUAL RESPONSE TO VITAMIN D

Abstract

A balance study of a patient with idiopathic hypoparathyroidism demonstrated an abnormal response to vitamin D2. Dosages up to 1 million units daily did not correct the abnormal calcium and phosphorus metabolism, but dihydro-tachysterol in a dosage of 3 cc. daily reversed the metabolic effects. Six years before this study, the patient had first experienced convulsive seizures. At that time, and five years later when lenticular cataracts developed, the serum calcium concentration was normal. The diagnosis of hypoparathyroidism was made at the time the patient entered the hospital for eye surgery, when hypocalcemia and hyperphosphatemia were present. The patient also exhibited trophic changes in the fingernails and episodes of psychotic behavior. In addition to the abnormal serum calcium and phosphorus levels, there were low serum levels of citric acid, increased renal reabsorption of phosphate, and a normal response to intravenous parathyroid hormone.