bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Case of Vocal Cord Paralysis and Severe Hypocalcemia
Authors: Iwuala Sandra Omozehio , Kirupakaran Johnathan , Trusty Rhonda , Curry Sumarah , Williams Belinda , Daruwala Orpah , Fenton Franklyn , Bahtiyar Gul , Rodriguez Giovanna 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: Tetany is the hallmark of hypocalcemia. Vocal cord paralysis is a rare presenting symptom of hypocalcemia, especially without signs of overt tetany or seizures. Clinical case: 18 year old man with history of iron deficiency anemia and dyslipidemia presented with aphasia, right sided upper and lower extremity weakness and facial tingling for 3 days. Physical exam was notable for aphasia, pallor, positive Chvostek and Trousseau sign. Admission labs showed BUN 127 mg/dL (n 8–26 mg/dL), creatinine 12.74 mg/dL (n 0.8–2.00 mg/dL), calcium 5.2 mg/dL (n 8.5–10.5 mg/dL), magnesium (1.8–2.4 mg/dL), phosphorus 10.3 (2.4–4.8 mg/dL), alkaline phosphatase 126 (8–120 U/L), albumin 3.3 g/dL (n 3.0–5.0 g/dL), 25 OH VitD3 9.1 ng/mL (n 30–80 ng/mL), PTH 594 pg/mL (n 15–65 pg.mL), COVID 19 PCR negative. Aphasia resolved with 1 gram calcium gluconate infusion. Patient underwent emergent hemodialysis. He was placed on calcium carbonate 1500 mg oral three times daily, calcitriol 1 mcg oral twice daily, ergocalciferol 50,000 IU weekly, sevelamer carbonate 1600 mg tablet three times daily. Kidney biopsy showed membranoproliferative pattern glomerulonephritis with C3 deposits. He was discharged on hemodialysis and referred to a transplant center. Conclusion: Vocal cord paralysis is rare in adults and mostly seen in patients with pseudohypoparathyroidism caused by hypomagnesaemia.2,3 Identifying vocal cord paralysis as an atypical presentation of hypocalcemia secondary to acute kidney failure requires prompt recognition and treatment. References: 1.Shoback D, Marcus R, Bikle D. Metabolic bone disease. In: Greenspan FS, Gardner DG, editors. Basic and clinical endocrinology. 3rd ed Los Altos (CA): Lange Medical Publications; 2004. p. 3242.van Veelen, M J et al. “Hypocalcaemic laryngospasm in the emergency department.” BMJ case reports vol. 2011 bcr1120103555. 17 Feb. 2011, doi:10.1136/bcr.11.2010.35553.Guise TA, Mundy GR. Clinical review 69: evaluation of hypocalcemia in children and adults. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1995;80:1473–8
A Curious Case of PTH Independent Hypercalcemia Secondary to Silicone Injections
Authors: Matos Moises , Farooq Ahsan , Peynado De Pena Heidi Jackeline , Yau Hanford , Uddin Asif 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: Hypercalcemia is a commonly encountered clinical problem with numerous etiologies. Granulomas formed secondary to foreign bodies are a rare but increasingly recognized cause of hypercalcemia. Clinical Case: A 49-year old African American woman, who had received silicone injections for buttock augmentation 15 years ago, was found to have severe hypercalcemia after she presented with complaints of chronic constipation, muscle cramping, polyuria, and mental fog. Her labs on admission showed severe hypercalcemia Ca 17.9mg/dL (normal: 8.4–10.6 mg/dL), with a suppressed PTH 4 pg/mL (normal 14–54 pg/mL). Prior labs from 5 years earlier, had shown an elevated 1,25(OH)2D, therefore differentials including lymphoma and chronic granulomatous diseases, particularly sarcoidosis, were high on the list of possible diagnosis. Additional labs showed a normal PTH-RP 19 pg/mL (normal 14–27 pg/mL), normal ACE levels 64 U/L (normal 9–67 U/L), low 25(OH)D2 1 ng/mL and normal 1,25(OH)2D 62 pg/mL. Her exam was notable for multiple indurated and firm masses palpable over the bilateral gluteal region and lateral thighs. CT abdomen/pelvis showed extensive and markedly confluent infiltration with intervening globules of macroscopic fat throughout the subcutaneous fat layers of the buttocks and lateral hips and speckled linear calcifications consistent with granulomatous reaction. With aggressive fluid hydration and calcitonin, her calcium levels decreased over the following 48 hours, but remained at 12–13 mg/dL. She was started on 30 mg of prednisone daily and her calcium levels dropped to 10.9 mg/dL the following day. She was discharged home on prednisone, her calcium levels remained suppressed, and her prednisone dose was slowly tapered during the following months. She was referred for plastic surgery evaluation and is being evaluated for possible surgical debridement. Conclusion: Hypercalcemia secondary to foreign body granulomas is a rare clinical entity. The diagnosis is usually established through a thorough history and examination. Lab findings may be variable. Treatment of these patients can be challenging, and corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment in most cases1. Surgical debridement of granulomas has been reported with good results; however, further investigation and longer follow-up is needed2. References: 1.Tachamo, N., Donato, A., Timilsina, B., Nazir, S., Lohani, S., Dhital, R., & Basnet, S. Hypercalcemia associated with cosmetic injections: A systematic review. European Journal of Endocrinology, 2018; 178(4): 425–4302.Edwards, B.J., Saraykar, S., Suna, M., Murphy, W. A., Lin, P., Gagel, R. Resection of granulomatous tissue resolves silicone induced hypercalcemia, Bone Reports, 2016; 5:163–7
A Rare Case of Perinatal Hypophosphatasia Treated With Asfotase Alfa
Authors: Srivastava Priya S , Walch Abby , Vyas Arpita Kalla , Capodanno Gina , Lee Janet Yi Man 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: Perinatal Hypophosphatasia (HPP) is a rare and lethal disorder associated with a 50–100% mortality rate, usually due to respiratory complications. HPP occurs due to a loss-of-function mutation in the ALPL gene, responsible for the function of tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNSALP). Clinically, HPP presents as a severe lack of bone mineralization leading to a rickets-like presentation.
Clinical Case: A 4-month-old female presented from an outside hospital for the ongoing care of perinatal HPP. Prenatal scans with long-bone fractures raised concern for Osteogenesis imperfecta. However, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) at birth was &lt;11 U/L, and vitamin B6 was elevated &gt;250 ng/mL. Calcium, 25-OH vitamin D, and urine phosphoethanolamine were normal. A genetics panel for HPP confirmed two pathogenic autosomal recessive mutations on the ALPL gene.
Treatment with asfotase alfa 3 mg/kg three times weekly was started on day two of life. The clinical course has been complicated by the need for mechanical ventilator support, seizure-event shortly after birth, recent EEG demonstrating epileptogenic potential in the bitemporal cortical regions now on treatment with Keppra, possible craniosynostosis with mild-to-moderate ventriculomegaly, and minimal grade 1 medullary nephrocalcinosis. Bone mineralization is monitored via skeletal surveys, and changes are measured using the Radiographic Global Impression of Change (RGI-C) and the Rickets Scoring Scale (RSS). After four months of asfotase alfa treatment, substantial progress in bone mineralization per RGI-C scoring has been noted, but RSS scoring still indicates severely low bone mineralization. ALP remains &gt;3,000 U/L. Calcium, 25-OH vitamin D, and vitamin B6 are normal. Careful monitoring with weekly biochemical and urine profiles and monthly skeletal surveys, neuro assessments, and renal ultrasounds are ongoing.
Conclusions: This clinical case demonstrates the improvement in bone mineralization with asfotase alfa, but the clinical course is slow and arduous. Despite the early initiation of asfotase alfa the patient’s bone mineralization remains severely low and is not in a safe range to proceed with G-tube, broviac, or tracheostomy placement. The current management goal is to maximize bone mineralization in preparation for the life-sustaining procedures mentioned above. With only a handful of surviving cases in the world, current long-term survival and outcomes for patients with perinatal HPP are unclear.
A Treatable but Commonly Missed Etiology;An Unusual Presentation of Primary Hyperparathyroidism as Acute on Chronic Recurrent Pancreatitis- A Case Report
Authors: Abdelmasih Randa , Abdelmaseih Ramy , Monsour Elio Paul , Faya Marines , Nasser Hesham 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Introduction: Acute pancreatitis is an identified, but uncommon presentation of Primary hyperparathyroidism with prevalence of 3.6%. Hypercalcemia is a rare but known cause of pancreatitis as it leads to premature intra pancreatic activation of protease and destruction of pancreatic tissue leading to pancreatitis. Here we present a case of primary hyperparathyroidism that went undiagnosed for years, and was finally diagnosed after recurrent episodes of pancreatitis of unclear etiology.
Case Presentation: A 46-year-old female with history of recurrent pancreatitis presented to the emergency department due to constant epigastric pain for 6 hours associated with nausea and vomiting. Patient reported recurrent episodes of pancreatitis over the past 4 years. Patient was told that etiology of pancreatitis is unclear despite workup. Patient was frustrated that her pancreatitis attacks were usually labeled as alcoholic pancreatitis as she works as a bartender. She strongly states she only drinks alcohol occasionally. She underwent cholecystectomy 2 years ago in attempt to prevent further pancreatitis attacks. Her vital signs were stable. Physical exam was remarkable for epigastric tenderness. CT abdomen and pelvis with contrast showed chronic pancreatitis, pseudocyst and free fluid in the pancreatic bed characteristic of acute pancreatitis. Abdominal US showed post cholecystectomy changes, with no biliary dilatation or stones. Initial labs showed: lipase 2001 U/L, Alcohol level &lt; 10 mmol/L, Calcium 11.5 mg/dl, ionized calcium 4.9 mg/dl, phosphate 2.7 mg/dl, and Triglycerides 52 mg/dl. Subsequently parathyroid hormone was checked and was 116.8 pg/ml. Vitamin D was normal. NM parathyroid scan showed increased tracer activity demonstrating parathyroid adenoma. Patient was given IVF and supportive treatment and her symptoms improved. Endocrinology recommended parathyroidectomy. Patient elected to be discharged and undergoes parathyroidectomy outpatient.
Discusion: In this case we emphasize the importance of considering PHPT in acute pancreatitis of unclear etiology especially when Calcium level is elevated. PHPT was missed as a treatable etiology despite mildly elevated calcium level in prior hospitalizations. It is reported that pancreatitis is frequently associated with hypocalcemia with prevalence of 15–88%. Moreover, hypocalcemia is a component of Ranson’s scoring system for severity of pancreatitis. This is explained by precipitation of calcium soaps, hypoalbuminemia and increased calcitonin secondary to glucagon release. PTHT induced pancreatitis management has the same general principles of supportive management. All these patients, once stable, should undergo parathyroidectomy for definitive treatment. Data suggests nearly 100% improvement in pancreatitis symptoms and prevention of recurrent pancreatitis episodes after the cure of PHPT.
Acute Pancreatitis as an Initial Presentation of Primary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Yamane Laforteza Alexis Roberto , Villa Michael Lim 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: Acute pancreatitis secondary to hypercalcemia is may be the initial presentation of a patient with primary hyperparathyroidism. However, because of its infrequency as a cause of pancreatitis, it can be easily missed during clinical management. Clinical Case: A 56-year old woman initially presented with epigastric pain with radiation to the back. She had no previous comorbidities, did not drink alcohol, and had no previous history of cholelithiasis, nephrolithiasis nor pathologic fractures. The diagnosis was confirmed by an elevated serum lipase level (59117 U/L, reference interval (RI): 73–393 U/L) and contrast-enhanced MRI findings suggestive of acute pancreatitis with hemorrhagic component in the pancreatic body and tail. Hypercalcemia was documented on two separate occasions during her confinement with a serum total calcium level of 10.5 mg/dL (RI: 8.5–10.1 mg/dL) and an ionized calcium level of 1.45 mmol/L (RI: 1.09–130 mmol/L), however, no further workup was done at that time. She was managed conservatively and was sent home with plans to do an ERCP and possible laparoscopic cholecystectomy once her condition had stabilized. However, she had recurrence of the epigastric pain about one month after her initial episode. Her serum lipase showed an interval increase from her last result (1426 U/L from 933 U/L) and contrast-MRI now showed the development of areas of walled-off necrosis in the body and tail of the pancreas. Serum ionized calcium was again elevated (2.17 mmol/L); she also had an elevated intact PTH level (780.6 pg/ml, RI: 18.5–88.0 pg/ml). Parathyroid SPECT-CT showed a sestamibi-avid lesion inferoposterior to the right thyroid lobe, indicating a probable parathyroid adenoma. She was given 1 dose of Denusomab 120 mg subcutaneously and started on Calcitonin nasal spray 200 IU twice a day. She underwent ultrasound-guided drainage of the pancreatic necrosis and was subsequently discharged. Due to difficulty in procurement of the Calcitonin nasal spray, she was maintained on Cinacalcet 30 mg/tablet, 1 tablet once a day upon discharge with plans to undergo parathyroidectomy once she was had fully recovered from her pancreatitis. Conclusion: Primary hyperparathyroidism should always be considered when hypercalcemia is noted during the clinical management of acute pancreatitis. Reference: Misgar RA, Bhat MH, Rather TA, Masoodi SR, Wani AI, Bashir MI, Wani MA, Malik AA. Primary hyperparathyroidism and pancreatitis. J Endocrinol Invest. 2020 Oct;43(10):1493–1498.
An Interesting Case of Isolated Bone Marrow Sarcoidosis
Authors: Iqbal Iqra , Minalyan Artem , Khan Muhammad Atique Alam , McGrath Glenn A 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Introduction: About 30% cases of sarcoidosis have extrapulmonary manifestations but only 7% of patients present without any lung involvement. Among those 7%, most of the patients have manifestations on the skin but isolated bone marrow sarcoidosis has not been commonly reported. This case represents an unusual manifestation of isolated bone marrow sarcoidosis presenting with very high calcium levels.
Case Presentation: A 58-year-old female presented to us with fatigue, poor appetite, and nausea. She did not report any weight changes. Her cancer screening was up to date. On examination, she appeared dehydrated. No neck swelling was appreciated. Cardiac, respiratory, abdominal, and neurological examinations were normal. Complete blood count showed hemoglobin of 10.6 mg/dL, white blood cell count of 3.8 k/dL, and platelet count of 87 x109/L. Metabolic panel revealed hypercalcemia with corrected calcium levels as high as 12.6 mg/dL. Ionized calcium was 8.1 mg/dL (normal 4.8 - 5.6). Her parathyroid hormone (PTH) level was elevated up to 64.6 mg/dL and then further increased to 134.3 mg/dL. A 24-hour urinary calcium level was normal. 1, 25-dihydroxy (1,25-OH) and 25-OH vitamin D levels were 97 mg/dL (normal 18–72) and 31.2 mg/dL, respectively. Serum protein electrophoresis and light chain analysis were normal. Hyperparathyroidism was suggested as a cause of hypercalcemia. Ultrasound of the neck and sestamibi scan showed a right lower pole parathyroid adenoma. Paraneoplastic hypercalcemia was also one of the differentials. Parathyroid hormone related peptide (PTHrP) was 9 pg/mL (normal 14 - 27). Colonoscopy was normal. Computerized tomography showed normal lungs, liver and spleen. No masses and lymphadenopathy was seen. A bone marrow biopsy was done for pancytopenia. Patient underwent parathyroid adenoma removal followed by a drop in serum calcium level (8.2 mg/dL). Patient was discharged on calcium carbonate and vitamin D tablets. Upon outpatient follow-up, calcium level started to rise again up to 9.8 mg/dL. Despite discontinuation of supplemental calcium and vitamin D, calcium continued to uptrend (11.5 mg/dL 4 weeks later). Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) level came back as high as 129 (normal level &lt; 40 mcg/L). Meanwhile, the bone marrow biopsy results showed that 40% of bone marrow was occupied by non-caseating granulomas suggesting sarcoidosis. Patient was started on steroids for isolated bone marrow sarcoidosis, and eventually her serum calcium level normalized.
Conclusion: An isolated bone marrow sarcoidosis is an extremely rare manifestation of extrapulmonary sarcoidosis. It can present with pancytopenia and should be sought in patients with persistent hypercalcemia. In addition, our case was challenging due to the presence of a concurrent hyperparathyroidism which was initially thought to be the only explanation of our patient’s hypercalcemia.
Bilateral Sacral Stress Fracture in Pregnancy without Osteoporosis - A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Wu Yu-Fang , Lu Kenneth , Girgis Christian M , Preda Martina , Preda Veronica Angela 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Purpose: Sacral stress fractures are rare complications which can arise during pregnancy or in the early postpartum period. We report a case and discuss the findings of a confirmed postpartum sacral stress fracture in a 39-year-old multiparous woman and review previous case reports in the literature of sacral stress fracture related to pregnancy. Methods: A review of the literature was conducted to examine the main characteristics of sacral stress fractures related to pregnancy. The Ovid/Medline, Embase and Google Scholar databases were searched with the inclusion criteria: human studies, English language, intrapartum, postpartum (within 6 months of parturition), sacrum and stress fracture. Our exclusion criteria included pubic fractures, vertebral fractures and non-English articles. The search terms included “stress fracture”, “postpartum”, “pregnancy”, “atraumatic” and the wildcard “sacr*”. 34 cases were found and summarised in Table 2. Results: 65% of patients had onset of symptoms postpartum. Most patients did not have risk factors for sacral stress fractures including macrosomia, excessive pregnancy weight gain, heparin exposure, rapid vaginal delivery or predisposition to accelerated osteoporosis. Lumbar radiculopathy can be a feature of sacral stress fracture and it is more common (17.6%) than reported in the literature (2%). MRI is the preferred imaging modality for its safety profile in pregnancy and high sensitivity. 70% of reported normal bone mineral density (BMD). The mainstay treatment for sacral stress fractures includes relative bedrest, analgesia and modified weight bearing exercises. Most patients have favourable outcome with complete symptom resolution. Conclusion: Sacral stress fractures in the absence of osteoporosis are rare complications of pregnancy that can present with lumbar radiculopathy. Conservative management often produces good clinical outcomes.
Calcitriol-Mediated Hypercalcemia from Hepatic Granulomatosis Following Percutaneous Cholecystostomy Tube
Authors: Cater Taylor , Hassan Ayesha , Haider Adnan , Turner Jennifer 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Granulomatous conditions can present with calcitriol-mediated hypercalcemia via increased 1-hydroxylase activity—activity that is not inhibited by calcium or calcitriol—indicating a lack of feedback inhibition. Differential diagnosis of granulomatosis is quite broad and can require extensive workup as highlighted by this case. Our patient is a 69-year-old white female admitted to the hospital with altered mental status and hypotension. Initial evaluation was concerning for infection, due to leukopenia and thrombocytopenia. CT abdomen revealed cholecystitis, percutaneous cholecystostomy tube was placed, and the patient’s mental status improved. One month after discharge, the patient presented to the hospital with a corrected calcium of 15.2 mg/dl. PTH was 22 pg/mL with normal renal function and phosphorus. The patient was treated with intravenous fluids, calcitonin, and zoledronic acid. Calcitriol was 69 pg/ml (18–75 pg/ml) and corrected calcium responded by time of discharge. During outpatient follow up, she was found to have corrected calcium 11.2 mg/dl and calcitriol 166 pg/ml with appropriately low PTH. Additional workup of apparent calcitriol-mediated hypercalcemia with whole-body CT imaging, tuberculosis screening, and flow cytometry only notable for possible right cervical lymphadenopathy on CT. Subsequent lymph node biopsy was benign. The patient completed a 30-day course of prednisone 20 mg daily followed by prednisone taper and her corrected calcium and calcitriol levels normalized. However, after discontinuation of prednisone, lab work demonstrated increase in calcium and liver enzymes. Repeat CT scan showed multiple hypoechoic areas with subsequent biopsy consistent with necrotizing hepatic granulomatosis. PAS-A, Fite, and AFB stains were negative for fungi and mycobacteria. Removal of cholecystostomy tube resulted in complete resolution of hypercalcemia and elevated calcitriol levels. Foreign body-induced granulomatosis is associated with PTH-independent hypercalcemia. Silicone has been implicated in foreign body granuloma. Hepatic granulomatosis is associated with percutaneous tube, especially with prolonged placement (approximately 11 months in this case). Removal of the foreign body is associated with improvement in hypercalcemia. Follow-up liver ultrasound demonstrated complete resolution of hepatic granulomas at three months following removal of the cholecystostomy tube.