Primary hyperparathyroidism with metabolic bone disease.

A case of hyperparathyroidism with metabolic bone disease, due to a single parathyroid adenoma, is presented. The salient features of the condition, namely, generalised bone pains, anorexia, polyuria and polydipsia, loss of strength and weight and a sense of dryness of mouth and throat, are discussed. Renal colic may be a presenting feature. The characteristic findings are generalised decalcification with the formation of ""cysts,"" hypochromic anaemia, an elevated serum calcium, a low plasma phosphorus and a high alkaline phosphatase (in the presence of metabolic bone disease). Hypercalciuria is almost always present, and the value of the simple Sulkowitch test to demonstrate this as a screening method is stressed.