[Primary hyperparathyroidism].

The diagnosis of primary hyperparathyroidism is based on laboratory tests showing high levels of calcium and parathyroid hormone. Primary hyperparathyroidism is treated by surgery, which is indicated in symptomatic as well as in asymptomatic disease, provided the latter patients are at low risk. Primary parathyroidectomy should be successful in at least 90% of the patients. Epidemiological studies show that pHPT occurs much more often than operation statistics imply. This situation can be improved by a more consequent differential diagnosis that detects up all cases of hypercalcemia.