German Hypoparathyroidism Registry

Chronic hypoparathyroidism is a rare condition in which the parathyroid glands do not make enough parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH helps control the levels of calcium and phosphate in the blood. When there is not enough PTH, calcium levels can become too low and phosphate levels can become too high. This may cause symptoms such as tingling, muscle cramps, weakness, or other health problems.

The most common cause of chronic hypoparathyroidism is surgery in the neck area. It can happen after thyroid surgery, surgery on the parathyroid glands, or other operations in the neck.

At the moment, most patients are treated with calcium and vitamin D tablets. These treatments help control calcium levels, but they cannot fully replace the normal effects of PTH in the body. A medicine that contains a form of human PTH is available for some patients, but it is not yet the standard treatment for everyone.

This registry collects medical information and follows patients over time. Its aim is to better understand patients' symptoms, possible long-term health problems, treatments, and overall health. A group of patients who have had their thyroid removed but do not have hypoparathyroidism will also be included for comparison.