The outcome of cervical exploration for asymptomatic and symptomatic patients with primary hyperparathyroidism.

This study examined the success and safety of cervical exploration in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (HPT). The presentation, pathologic findings, and outcome of patients with asymptomatic primary HPT were compared with those with symptomatic disease. Records of patients undergoing cervical exploration for primary HPT from January 1993 until December 31, 2003, were reviewed. Information collected consisted of preoperative symptoms, calcium and parathormone (PTH) levels, imaging studies, operative findings, pathology, and outcome of the patients. The groups with asymptomatic and symptomatic primary HPT were compared. In all, 139 patients were studied; 31 (22.3%) were asymptomatic (group I), and 108 (77.7%) had symptoms (group II). The two groups were also comparable regarding mean age, sex, and the yield of the imaging studies. The mean preoperative serum calcium level was comparable in the two groups (11.1 mg/dl versus 11.3 mg/dl). However, PTH levels were significantly lower in group I than in group II (142 pg/dl versus 283 pg/dl, P = 0.01). The weight of the adenoma was also significantly less in group I than in group II (1082 mg versus 1679 mg P = 0.079). The outcome of the surgical exploration was comparable in the two groups with an immediate success rate close to 98% and a long-term success rate of 95.4%. Cervical exploration and parathyroidectomy in patients with primary HPT is a safe procedure with a high success rate and favorable outcome.

Massive gastric dilatation after a single binge in an anorectic woman.

OBJECTIVE: Massive gastric dilatation is a very serious condition that is extremely rare in patients with no history of gastrointestinal disease. Several cases have been reported in patients with eating disorders, particularly after a binge. We report here the case of a young woman who developed severe gastric dilatation after a single binge. METHODS: A computed tomographic (CT) scan of the abdomen was done and a psychiatric evaluation was performed. RESULTS: The diagnosis of acute gastric dilatation was confirmed and superior mesenteric artery syndrome was excluded. The patient responded to nasogastric drainage and bowel rest. She was also found to have situational anxiety and depressive symptoms as well as a nonspecified eating disorder. CONCLUSION: This case illustrates the serious sequel of even a single binge in any patient with abnormal dietary habits, and demonstrates the useful role of the CT scan in the diagnosis.