American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) Practice Exam

What is a common complication of hypoparathyroidism?

1. Hyperkalemia

2. Somnolence

3. Hypocalcemia

4. Muscle flaccidity

The correct answer is: Hypocalcemia

Hypoparathyroidism is characterized by insufficient production of parathyroid hormone (PTH), which plays a crucial role in regulating calcium levels in the body. When PTH levels are low, the body's ability to maintain normal calcium levels is compromised. This leads to hypocalcemia, a condition where calcium levels in the blood are abnormally low. The symptoms of hypocalcemia can include tingling in the fingers and toes, muscle cramps, and in severe cases, tetany, which is painful muscle spasm. The direct connection between low PTH and decreased serum calcium levels makes hypocalcemia a common and significant complication of hypoparathyroidism. In contrast, hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) is primarily related to kidney function and does not directly associate with hypoparathyroidism. Somnolence, or excessive sleepiness, is not a specific complication of this condition and often relates to various other metabolic or neurological conditions. Muscle flaccidity can occur in different contexts but is not directly linked as a complication of hypoparathyroidism. Therefore, hypocalcemia stands out as the primary complication associated with this disorder, reflecting the essential role of parathyroid hormone in calcium homeostasis.