In the case of hypoparathyroidism, which electrolyte imbalance is expected?

In hypoparathyroidism, the primary issue is a deficiency in parathyroid hormone (PTH), which plays a crucial role in regulating calcium and phosphate levels in the body. When there is insufficient PTH, the kidneys excrete more calcium, and the bones release less calcium into the bloodstream, leading to lower levels of calcium in the blood, a condition known as hypocalcemia.

Hypocalcemia presents with various symptoms, including muscle cramps, tingling sensations, and in severe cases, seizures or cardiac issues. Monitoring calcium levels is vital in managing patients with hypoparathyroidism, and appropriate treatments often involve calcium and vitamin D supplementation to help maintain normal calcium levels.

The other electrolyte imbalances listed do not typically occur in hypoparathyroidism. Hypercalcemia, for example, is characterized by excessive calcium in the blood, which is contrary to what occurs in hypoparathyroidism. Similarly, hyponatremia refers to low sodium levels and hyperkalemia refers to high potassium levels, neither of which are directly associated with inadequate secretion of parathyroid hormone and are not expected in the context of hypoparathyroidism.