Lithium-induced hyperparathyroidism

Clinicians are very aware that lithium can cause hypothyroidism and routinely check thyroid function in patients on lithium. But, should we be routinely screening for lithium-induced hyperparathyroidism? By the way, don’t get mixed up–it is HYPOthyroidism, but HYPERparathyroidism. How does lithium cause hyperparathyroidism and hypercalcemia? 1. It stimulates the parathyroid glands to release parathyroid hormone…