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Parathyroid Tumors Program

Patients with hyperparathyroidism benefit from comprehensive care at one of the nation’s largest, most established parathyroid programs. We bring a century of expertise in parathyroid surgery and offer the latest, least invasive procedures.
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855-776-4224

Call the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute at 855-776-4224

8557764224

Experts in parathyroid tumor treatments

The parathyroid glands are in the neck and are part of your endocrine system. They produce hormones that control how much calcium is in your blood. Different conditions can cause a parathyroid gland to make too much hormone, resulting in osteoporosis, kidney stones, and other health problems.

The Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute is home to one of the largest, most established programs to treat parathyroid tumors in the country. In 1926, we pioneered the first operation for hyperparathyroidism. Now, we utilize the most advanced pre-operative localization techniques and perform hundreds of parathyroid surgeries every year. Additionally, our specialists are involved in clinical trials to find better therapies for patients with parathyroid cancer.

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Part of the Cancer Institute
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Our approach to care for parathyroid tumors

Our Parathyroid Tumor Program brings together leading endocrine tumor specialists to provide comprehensive care for all types of parathyroid disorders.
Diagnostic expertise

Our diagnostic specialists (pathologists) are world leaders in diagnosing parathyroid tumors and using advanced, molecular diagnostic testing when appropriate.

Depending on your symptoms, you may receive one or more of these tests:

  • Blood test to measure levels of parathyroid hormones, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium
  • Genetic test to look for genes that can cause hyperparathyroidism
  • Imaging scans, including ultrasound and 4D CT scans
  • Parathyroid scan using nuclear medicine technology
  • Fine needle aspiration biopsy

We have particular expertise in evaluating and treating patients with genetic conditions affecting the parathyroid.

Hyperparathyroidism specialists

We have doctors who specialize in evaluating and treating patients with inherited genetic syndromes that cause hyperparathyroidism (overactive parathyroid glands).

Our specialists also have the expertise to distinguish primary hyperparathyroidism from conditions that cause similar symptoms, such as secondary hyperparathyroidism or familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia.

Nationally recognized endocrine surgeons

Our surgeons performed the first successful surgery for hyperparathyroidism in 1926. Today, we’re nationally known for having the most specialized surgeons who treat parathyroid and endocrine disorders.

We specialize in minimally invasive parathyroidectomy to remove a diseased gland when appropriate. Benefits of this approach include:

  • Small incisions and minimal scarring
  • Limited neck exploration to find and remove only the diseased gland
  • Parathyroid hormone monitoring during surgery

Treatment for all types of thyroid tumors and cancers

As one of the nation’s largest and oldest parathyroid programs, we have the experts and treatments to get your hormones into a healthy range. You receive compassionate care from providers who specialize in parathyroid diseases.

Our cancer specialists

At every step, your care is guided by a multidisciplinary team of cancer specialists. This may include medical, surgical, and radiation oncology physicians, advanced practice providers, radiologists, pathologists, oncology nurses, nurse navigators, and more. You may also work with dietitians, genetic counselors, social workers, and mental health professionals.
An illustration of a care team.
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phone
855-776-4224

Call the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute

8557764224

Cancer clinical trials and research

Our research is shaping the future of cancer care. We offer access to clinical trials and emerging therapies, including treatments that may not yet be widely available. Eligibility depends on a person’s diagnosis, treatment history, and more. Explore our research and clinical trials or talk with your care team to learn about available options.
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Explore our cancer research

Learn how cancer research informs patient care

https://research.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/institutes-centers/cancer-institute-research
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Search clinical trials
https://research.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/institutes-centers/cancer-institute-research/cancer-clinical-trials

Patient resources and support

We offer a range of resources to support patients and caregivers before, during, and after cancer treatment. These services address physical, emotional, and practical needs and are available alongside your medical care.
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View all patient resources
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Contact the Cancer Institute

Call us to speak with a team member who can help you understand your options and guide you to the care that is right for you. With locations throughout New England and support for patients traveling from outside the United States, we make it easier to access coordinated, expert care.
primary
phone
855-776-4224

Call the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute at 855-776-4224

8557764224
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International Patient Services

Contact International Patient Services

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