Parathyroid biopsy

A parathyroid biopsy most often is performed as part of a surgical procedure to examine and/or remove the parathyroid glands because of disease. The parathyroid glands may be removed because of conditions such as a tumor or increased blood calcium levels. The parathyroid glands are located near the thyroid gland. They secrete parathyroid hormone (PTH), which functions primarily in the control of calcium levels.

Update Date: 9/10/2011

Updated by: Shabir Bhimji, MD, PhD, Specializing in Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Midland, TX. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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