parathyromatosis
Pronunciation: pair-ah-thy-row-mah-TOH-sis
Multiple small parathyroid tissue implants throughout the neck and mediastinum following parathyroid gland rupture.
Full Definition
Parathyromatosis refers to the seeding of functional parathyroid tissue throughout the neck and superior mediastinum, typically occurring after inadvertent rupture or fragmentation of hyperfunctioning parathyroid tissue during surgery. These microscopic tissue fragments can implant and grow, leading to persistent or recurrent hyperparathyroidism. The condition is challenging to treat because the multiple small implants are difficult to localize and remove surgically. Prevention involves careful handling of parathyroid tissue during initial surgery to avoid capsular rupture.
Usage
Usage note: Not to be confused with parathyroid hyperplasia, which involves enlarged native glands.
In Context
- "Persistent hypercalcemia following surgery raised concern for possible parathyromatosis." — postoperative assessment
- "The patient developed parathyromatosis after inadvertent capsular rupture during the initial procedure." — complication report