Gamma probe-assisted excision of an ectopic parathyroid adenoma located within the thymus: case report and review of the literature.

Primary hyperparathyroidism due to parathyroid adenomas may be associated with ectopic parathyroid gland localization in 20-25% of the patients. We report herein the excision of an ectopic parathyroid adenoma which was detected in the thymus gland by gamma probe intraoperatively. A 38-year-old patient presented to our clinic with a history of bilateral nephrolithiasis, chronic hypercalcaemia, and PTH elevation.

Digit ratios and relation to myocardial infarction in Greek men and women.

Background: Digit ratios, such as the second to fourth digit ratio (2D:4D), are biometric markers that are influenced by estrogen and testosterone concentrations in utero and are determined genetically by HOX genes (homeodomain-containing homeotic genes). Sex steroids also play a crucial role in the occurrence of myocardial infarction (MI), which is considered to be gender dependent and related to testosterone. Additionally, first-trimester exposure to excess levels of estrogens and progesterone has been linked to cardiovascular anomalies.