What are the hallmarks of hypoparathyroidism?

In hypoparathyroidism, the primary issue is a deficiency or absence of parathyroid hormone (PTH), which plays a crucial role in regulating calcium and phosphate levels in the body. When PTH is decreased, this leads to lower levels of calcium in the bloodstream, known as hypocalcemia. Additionally, because PTH is normally responsible for regulating renal calcium reabsorption and enhancing intestinal absorption of calcium, its absence results in decreased adjusted calcium levels.

In the context of phosphate levels, the lack of PTH leads to an increase in phosphate because PTH usually promotes the excretion of phosphate by the kidneys. Therefore, hypoparathyroidism is characterized by decreased PTH along with decreased adjusted calcium levels and an increase in phosphate levels.

This understanding helps clarify the physiological consequences of low PTH levels in the body, highlighting how it disrupts the delicate balance between calcium and phosphate metabolism.