Urinary Calcium Response to Chronic Parathyroidectomy in Rats

Abstract

In rats maintained on a normal diet parathyroidectomy resulted in a hypercalciuric response which persisted for periods up to 4 weeks. In view of the marked hypocalcemia existing throughout the 4-week period, it is concluded that removal of the parathyroids results in a chronic increase in Ca clearance. Serum Mg and urinary Mg and in- organic phosphate data are also reported. Chronic parathyroidectomy resulted in the expected fall in urinary inorganic phosphate. Serum Mg fell following parathyroidectomy; urinary Mg levels were unaffected by the operation.