hyperparathyroidism

noun

hy·​per·​para·​thy·​roid·​ism ˌhī-pər-ˌper-ə-ˈthī-ˌrȯi-ˌdi-zəm How to pronounce hyperparathyroidism (audio)
-ˌpa-rə-
: the presence of excess parathyroid hormone in the body resulting in disturbance of calcium metabolism with increase in serum calcium and decrease in inorganic phosphorus, loss of calcium from bone, and renal damage with frequent kidney-stone formation

Examples of hyperparathyroidism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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For example, one small study in people with hyperparathyroidism found that evening doses of vitamin D3 were more effective than morning ones for managing the condition. Patricia Weiser, Verywell Health, 7 Aug. 2025 Certain medical conditions, such as chronic diarrhea, rare genetic disorders of phosphorus metabolism, hyperparathyroidism, kidney tubule defects, and diabetic ketoacidosis, as well as critical illness, can also cause phosphorus deficiencies. Jillian Kubala, Health, 8 July 2024 Low phosphate is commonly found in unusual kidney diseases or hyperparathyroidism, but some gastrointestinal and metabolic diseases may also cause a low phosphate level. Dr. Keith Roach, oregonlive, 7 June 2023 Hormonal abnormalities, such as hyperparathyroidism or hypothyroidism, can mess with the system and lead to constipation. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 13 Oct. 2022 During their evaluation, Kurt reported experiencing a variety of symptoms consistent with hyperparathyroidism — joint pain, fatigue and muscle weakness — for several months. Damon Tweedy, Discover Magazine, 31 Oct. 2017 But the most common cause is an overactive parathyroid gland in a condition known as hyperparathyroidism. Damon Tweedy, Discover Magazine, 31 Oct. 2017 Sure enough, his parathyroid hormone level was elevated, consistent with the most common form of hyperparathyroidism. Damon Tweedy, Discover Magazine, 31 Oct. 2017 The resulting condition, called hyperparathyroidism, can also lead to weakened bones, as well as kidney stones, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Jessica Migala, Health.com, 2 June 2021

Word History

First Known Use

1917, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hyperparathyroidism was in 1917

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Cite this Entry

“Hyperparathyroidism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hyperparathyroidism. Accessed 19 Aug. 2025.

Medical Definition

hyperparathyroidism

noun
hy·​per·​para·​thy·​roid·​ism -ˌpar-ə-ˈthī-ˌrȯid-ˌiz-əm How to pronounce hyperparathyroidism (audio)
: the presence of excess parathyroid hormone in the body resulting in disturbance of calcium metabolism with increase in serum calcium and decrease in inorganic phosphorus, loss of calcium from bone, and renal damage with frequent kidney-stone formation

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