Hypoparathyroidism:

B. Can be associated with marked hypocalcemia after parathyroidectomy in patients with bone disease.

C. Can cause anxiety, depression, or confusion.

D. Can cause physical signs such as Chvostek's and Trousseau's signs.

E. Is treatable acutely with intravenous calcium salts and chronically with oral calcium and vitamin D.

DISCUSSION: Hypoparathyroidism is most commonly encountered after thyroid surgery. It can be temporarily severe after parathyroidectomy in patients with bone disease (“postoperative bone hunger”). The signs and symptoms can include anxiety, depression, confusion, Chvostek's sign, and Trousseau's sign, as well as circumoral or extremity tingling, tetany with carpopedal spasms, or seizures. Treatment is as noted.