Delayed Calcium Normalization after Successful Parathyroidectomy in Primary Hyperparathyroidism

Introduction. Parathyroidectomy is the curative treatment option in primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT). The decrease of parathormone (PTH) by 50% or more from levels prior to surgery after excision predicts successful parathyroidectomy. Serum calcium is expected to return to normal within 24–72 hours after the surgery; however, nearly 10% have transient, persistent postoperative hypercalcemia. We present a case report of delayed calcium normalization after successful parathyroidectomy in a 38-year-old patient with PHPT. Methods. Parathyroidectomy was performed, with evidence of a decrease in PTH levels of more than 50% in the first 24 hours postoperatively compared to presurgical PTH; however, despite curative parathyroidectomy, a delayed calcium normalization was evidenced, with hypercalcemia persistence up to 120 hours postoperatively. Results. After the first month postoperatively, serum calcium remained normal. In conclusion, approximately 10% of patients with curative parathyroidectomy have transient, persistent postoperative hypercalcemia, which is more likely to occur in patients with higher preoperative serum calcium and PTH levels. Conclusion. Persistent hypercalcemia after the first month postoperatively is related with persistent PHPT, highlighting the importance of calcium monitoring after parathyroidectomy to predict short-term, medium-term, and long-term outcomes and prognosis

Risk Factors Associated with Mortality among Patients with COVID-19: Analysis of a Cohort of 1213 Patients in a Tertiary Healthcare Center

The presence of cardio-metabolic and respiratory comorbidities, immunosuppression, and chronic kidney disease have been associated with an increase in mortality from COVID-19. The objective of this study is to establish the risk factors associated with 30-day mortality in a cohort of hospitalized patients with COVID-19. This paper conducts a retrospective and analytical study of patients hospitalized for COVID-19 in a tertiary care center. A Cox proportional hazard analysis was performed to estimate the association of comorbidities with 30-day mortality. A total of 1215 patients with a median age of 59 years were included. In the adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression model, hypothyroidism, D-dimer ≥ 0.8 μg/mL, LHD ≥ 430 IU/L, CRP ≥ 4.83 ng/mL, and triglycerides ≥ 214 mg/dL were associated with an increased risk of death. The presence of a history of hypothyroidism and biomarkers (D-dimer, lactic dehydrogenase, CRP, and triglycerides) were associated with an increase in mortality in the studied cohort