From Psychiatry to Neurology and Endocrinology: A Case of Hypoparathyroidism

A 31-year-old male patient developed extrapyramidal symptoms while on treatment for depression. He was investigated and found to suffer from hypoparathyroidism. He had calcification in the brain, signs and symptoms of neuromuscular irritability, and QT prolongation on electrocardiogram. He was treated with calcium carbonate and calcitriol. Although he had marked improvement, bradykinesia persisted. This report highlights the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for hypocalcemia, and the importance of searching for an organic basis for psychiatric symptoms.