Altunizade Hospital
For detailed information and appointments: +90-536-906-0904
Assoc. Prof. Dr.
Mehmet Kostek
The parathyroid gland acts as the conductor of our body's calcium balance. These small glands, usually four in number and located around the thyroid gland, secrete hormones that, if insufficient or too little, require careful evaluation and selection of the correct treatment method.
What is the function of the parathyroid glands?
The parathyroid glands secrete a hormone called parathormone (PTH). This hormone draws calcium from the bones into the bloodstream, raising blood calcium levels. Excessive PTH levels can lead to severely elevated blood calcium, which is then excreted through the kidneys, causing kidney stones. Therefore, coincidentally elevated calcium levels and frequently recurring kidney stones should be evaluated for parathyroid gland disease.
Where is the parathyroid gland located?
Anatomically, there are usually four parathyroid glands, but in some cases their number can increase. They are located in the neck, behind the thyroid gland, with two on the right and two on the left.
However, since they are embryologically migratory glands, they can be found anywhere from under the jaw to inside the rib cage. Enlarged parathyroid glands, in particular, can move further down as they grow, and these migration pathways must be carefully evaluated when planning treatment for parathyroid diseases. In surgeries performed without proper imaging techniques, the gland may not be located, leading to inadequate treatment. Therefore, identifying the location of pathological parathyroid glands and seeking advice from experienced surgeons in this field for surgery is crucial.