MRI in hyperparathyroidism requiring reoperation.

A 34-year-old woman presented with persistent hyperparathyroidism (HPT) following primary surgical removal of a hypertrophied parathyroid gland. Reevaluation ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT), and parathyroid scintigraphy studies were negative for parathyroid adenoma. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) clearly identified an ectopic parathyroid adenoma within the lateral carotid sheath. Uncomplicated surgical extirpation of the adenoma was accomplished. We discuss the role of US, CT, parathyroid scintigraphy, and MRI in recurrent HPT.