Bone metabolism in primary hyperparathyroidism

Primary hyperparathyroidism is a frequent endocrine disorder that affects various organ systems. In this review we present and discuss alterations of bone metabolism in primary hyperparathyroidism. Excessive secretion of parathyroid hormone results in increased bone remodelling with an excess of bone resorption. Consequently, bone mineral density declines, bone quality is compromised and fracture risk increases.Successful surgery for hyperparathyroidism results in a normalization of bone turnover and a decrease of fracture risk. Osteitis fibrosa cystica, a severe bone manifestation of hyperparathyroidism, is observed rarely today.