Our Summary

This research paper is about the relationship between depression, a mental health condition, and primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT), a disease that affects the parathyroid glands in the neck. The researchers looked at whether surgery to remove these glands (parathyroidectomy) can help with depression symptoms.

The researchers analyzed information from several studies, specifically looking at individuals’ scores on a depression measurement tool called the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) before and after they had the surgery. A higher BDI-II score means more severe depression.

They found that people with pHPT had higher depression scores compared to those without the disease. After surgery, these individuals’ depression scores significantly decreased within 1 month and remained low after 6 months.

Based on these findings, the researchers suggest that patients with pHPT who have a BDI-II score of 14 or more could potentially benefit from parathyroid gland surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the relationship between depression and primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT)?
  2. Can parathyroidectomy help to reduce depression symptoms in individuals with pHPT?
  3. What were the findings of the research study regarding BDI-II scores in patients with pHPT before and after parathyroidectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about parathyroidectomy is to closely monitor their mood and mental health before and after the surgery. It is important to communicate any changes in symptoms, including depression, to your healthcare provider so they can provide appropriate support and treatment. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can also help improve mental well-being post-surgery.

Suitable For

Additionally, patients with pHPT who have not responded well to traditional treatments for depression may also be recommended for parathyroidectomy.

Overall, patients who are experiencing symptoms of depression in conjunction with pHPT may be recommended for parathyroidectomy to help alleviate their depressive symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

Timeline

Before parathyroidectomy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT), such as fatigue, bone pain, kidney stones, and depression.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests to confirm pHPT, including blood tests to measure calcium and parathyroid hormone levels.
  3. Patient consults with an endocrinologist and surgeon to discuss treatment options, including parathyroidectomy.
  4. Patient prepares for surgery, which may involve pre-operative testing and consultations with anesthesiologists and other medical specialists.
  5. Patient undergoes parathyroidectomy surgery to remove the diseased parathyroid gland/glands.

After parathyroidectomy:

  1. Patient recovers from surgery in the hospital or at home, following post-operative care instructions provided by medical team.
  2. Patient’s calcium levels are monitored closely to ensure they remain stable after surgery.
  3. Patient experiences improvement in symptoms of pHPT, such as fatigue, bone pain, and kidney stones.
  4. Patient’s depression symptoms, as measured by the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), significantly decrease within 1 month post-surgery.
  5. Patient continues to see improvement in depression symptoms, with BDI-II scores remaining low after 6 months post-surgery.
  6. Patient follows up with endocrinologist and surgeon for long-term monitoring of calcium levels and overall health.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the purpose of a parathyroidectomy for someone with primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT)?

  2. How will the surgery help with my symptoms of depression, if at all?

  3. What are the risks and potential complications associated with a parathyroidectomy?

  4. What is the recovery process like after the surgery?

  5. How long will it take for me to see improvements in my depression symptoms after the surgery?

  6. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that I should consider before opting for surgery?

  7. How will my hormone levels be monitored and managed after the surgery?

  8. What is the success rate of parathyroidectomy in improving mental health symptoms in patients with pHPT?

  9. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of after having a parathyroidectomy?

  10. Can you provide me with more information or resources about the relationship between pHPT and depression, as well as the potential benefits of surgery for mental health?

Reference

Authors: Chitnis OS, Wagner SK, Caraway JJ, Watson NL, Allard RJ, Orestes MI. Journal: Head Neck. 2025 Apr;47(4):1117-1124. doi: 10.1002/hed.28003. Epub 2024 Nov 27. PMID: 39601197