Lithium-induced Symptomatic Hypercalcemia and Hyperparathyroidism in a Patient with Bipolar Affective Disorder: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Lithium induced primary hyperparathyroidism is an uncommon endocrine side effect of long term lithium therapy. We studied the case of a 67-year-old female patient on long term lithium therapy for bipolar affective disorder, who developed resistant hypercalcaemia and parathyroid adenoma which required parathyroidectomy. Furthermore, the effect of chronic lithium therapy on parathyroid glands and serum calcium levels, its pathogenesis, and management were reviewed. Periodic monitoring of serum calcium levels in patients on long term lithium therapy should be practiced. Surgical removal of the affected parathyroid gland is an effective treatment modality in selected patients with resistant hypercalcaemia and parathyroid adenoma and/or hyperplasia. However, regular post-operative follow up is needed for early identification of recurrence in such patients.