Differentiation of hypercalcaemia due to malignancy from primary hyperparathyroidism: The value of parathyroid hormone and plasma bicarbonate measurements

Parathyroid hormone levels in primary hyperparathyroid patients and patients with malignant disease and hypercalcaemia are reported. The value of PTH measurement in conjunction with serum calcium and bicarbonate values in differential diagnosis is discussed. Theories for the production of hypercalcaemia in malignant disease are reviewed.