Ectopic Mediastinal Parathyroid Adenoma: A Case Report

Parathyroid adenomas comprise the majority of cases of primary hyperparathyroidism. Most of these adenomas are located near the lower poles of the thyroid glands, however, mediastinal, intrathyroidal, retroesophageal and intrathymic localizations have been reported. Preoperative imaging is very important for localization of the parathyroid adenomas. The most effective imaging method in localizing ectopic parathyroid adenomas is Technetium-99m sestamibi scintigraphy. Even when localized by scintigraphy, surgical exploration may be unsuccessful in adenomas less than 2 cm in size. In our case, we have obtained a successful parathyroid imaging which guided the chest surgeons and general surgeons to perform a successful parathyroidectomy via sternotomy. The attendance of a general surgeon experienced in parathyroid surgery has provided benefit in surgical exploration of the ectopic parathyroid adenoma. Turk Jem 2012; 16: 46-8