[Primary hyperparathyroidism due to an intrathoracic parathyroid adenoma. - A case report and review of the literature].

A 72 year old gentleman presented to the emergency department with symptoms of diffuse joint and muscular pain, fatigue and diminished memory. Serum calcium and parathyroid hormone levels were raised, consistent with primary hyperparathyroidism. No abnormality was found on an ultrasound scan of the neck. However, a sestamibi scan suggested a possible adenoma in the anterior mediastinum, which on computed tomography (CT) scan was 1.5 cm in size. A partial upper sternotomy was performed in order to excise the adenoma and his symptoms disappeared within several weeks. This case highlights the variable and commonly nonspecific symptoms of primary hyperparathyroidism and the less well known fact that parathyroid adenoma may occasionally be found intrathoracically.