Correlation of biochemical parameters with single parathyroid adenoma weight and volume.

Objective: To determine the relationship of the biochemical parameters serum phosphate, serum calcium, and serum parathyroid hormone levels with respect to parathyroid adenoma weight and volume in primary hyperparathyroidism.

Study Design: Retrospective review of 63 cases of primary hyperparathyroidism from 1992 to 1998.

Methods: Single parathyroid adenomas were identified from surgical pathology reports.

Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors in diabetic nephropathy.

Objective: Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a leading cause of kidney disease in the US. At least four factors influence whether people with diabetes will develop DN: (1) hypertension, (2) hyperglycemia, (3) dietary protein intake, and (4) intrarenal hemodynamics. The angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are known to affect blood pressure (BP) and intrarenal hemodynamics; thus, they may prevent the onset of DN or slow the decline in renal function once DN has been diagnosed.

Transcranial Doppler to evaluate the effects of antihypertensive medication on cerebral blood flow velocity.

The effect of oral nifedipine on cerebral blood flow velocity was studied in six elderly hypertensive patients using transcranial Doppler. Serial measurements of blood pressure (BP), middle cerebral artery (MCA) flow velocity and nifedipine serum concentrations were obtained over an 8-hour period. The authors found a significant inverse relationship between MCA velocities and nifedipine concentrations, independent of BP changes.