Primary Hyperparathyroidism as a Secondary Cause of Depression

A 27-year-old woman was initially diagnosed and treated for depression with suicide ideation. Thirteen months later, kidney stones, an elevated parathyroid hormone, and elevated calcium levels led to a diagnosis of primary hyperparathyroidism. The patient was treated for hyperparathyroidism by resection of the superior right parathyroid gland. When the calcium levels were regulated, the patient's moods, concentration, and memory were back to baseline. (J Am Board Fam Med 2010; 23: 677-680.)