#hypercalcemia

[mcatmemoranda]

[harmeet-saggi]

What Is A Calcium Blood Test?

The calcium blood test is a simple and popularly used test for determining one's "risk" for a variety of diseases.  A patient will typically have in-office phlebotomy to obtain blood, with lab technicians then taking the sample to check the level of calcium in the blood with point-of-care laboratory equipment.

[phonemantra-blog]

The Power of Zometa: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Utilizing its Benefits Understanding Zometa What is Zometa? Zometa is a potent bisphosphonate drug that is widely used in medical treatments. It is composed of the active ingredient zoledronic acid, which works by inhibiting bone resorption. [caption id="attachment_60005" align="aligncenter" width="510"] Zometa[/caption] Mechanism of Action Zometa works by targeting and inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, the cells responsible for breaking down bone tissue. By suppressing osteoclast function, Zometa helps prevent excessive bone resorption and promotes bone density preservation. Additionally, Zometa has been shown to stimulate osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation, leading to improved bone strength and structure. Medical Applications Zometa is primarily used in the treatment of various bone-related conditions, including osteoporosis, bone metastases, and hypercalcemia of malignancy. It is also utilized in certain cancer treatments to reduce the risk of skeletal-related events such as fractures and spinal cord compression. Benefits and Efficacy Preventing Bone Loss and Fractures Zometa plays a crucial role in preventing bone loss and fractures. Studies have shown that Zometa significantly reduces the risk of fractures in patients with osteoporosis. Its ability to inhibit bone resorption helps maintain bone density and strength, reducing the likelihood of fractures, particularly in postmenopausal women. Managing Osteoporosis Zometa is highly effective in managing osteoporosis. It is often prescribed when other osteoporosis medications have failed to produce satisfactory results. Zometa helps increase bone mineral density and reduce the risk of fractures, making it a valuable treatment option for individuals with osteoporosis. Treating Bone Metastases Zometa is widely used in the treatment of bone metastases, which occur when cancer spreads to the bones. By inhibiting bone resorption and promoting bone strength, Zometa helps alleviate pain, reduce the risk of fractures, and improve the overall quality of life for patients with bone metastases. Administration and Safety Dosage and Administration Zometa is administered intravenously and the dosage depends on the specific medical condition being treated. It is typically given once every 3 to 4 weeks. The dosage and frequency may vary based on individual patient factors, so it is important to follow the instructions provided by the healthcare professional. Potential Side Effects While Zometa is generally well-tolerated, it may cause some side effects. Common side effects include flu-like symptoms, fever, bone pain, and gastrointestinal disturbances. It is important to discuss any concerns or side effects with the healthcare provider. In rare cases, Zometa may cause more serious side effects such as osteonecrosis of the jaw or kidney problems. Drug Interactions and Contraindications Zometa may interact with certain medications, including other bisphosphonates, diuretics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is important to inform the healthcare provider about all medications being taken to avoid potential interactions. Zometa is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment and should be used with caution in individuals with pre-existing kidney problems. Frequently Asked Questions How long does Zometa stay in your system? Zometa has a half-life of approximately 146 hours, which means it takes about 6 days for half of the drug to be eliminated from the body. It may take several weeks for Zometa to be completely cleared from the system. The elimination time can vary depending on factors such as age, kidney function, and overall health. Can Zometa be used in pediatric patients? Zometa is not typically used in pediatric patients. Its safety and efficacy in children have not been extensively studied. However, in certain cases, such as pediatric osteogenesis imperfecta, Zometa may be considered under the close supervision of a pediatric specialist. Is Zometa covered by insurance? Insurance coverage for Zometa may vary depending on the specific insurance plan. It is advisable to check with the insurance provider to determine coverage details. Additionally, there may be cost-saving options available, such as patient assistance programs or manufacturer discounts, which can help reduce the out-of-pocket expenses for Zometa. Can Zometa be administered at home? Zometa is typically administered in a healthcare setting, such as a hospital or clinic, under the supervision of a healthcare professional. However, in certain cases, where appropriate training and resources are available, home administration may be considered. This decision should be made in consultation with the healthcare provider to ensure proper administration and monitoring. Are there any dietary restrictions while taking Zometa? There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with taking Zometa. However, it is important to maintain a healthy and balanced diet to support overall bone health. Adequate intake of calcium, vitamin D, and other essential nutrients is beneficial for maintaining strong and healthy bones. What should I do if I miss a Zometa dose? If a Zometa dose is missed, it is important to contact the healthcare provider for guidance. They will provide instructions on rescheduling the missed dose and adjusting the treatment plan accordingly. It is generally not recommended to double the dose or make any changes without medical advice. Can Zometa be used during pregnancy? Zometa is not recommended for use during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. The safety of Zometa in pregnant women has not been established, and it may have adverse effects on fetal development. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits with the healthcare provider before considering Zometa treatment during pregnancy. How long does it take for Zometa to show results? The time it takes for Zometa to show results can vary depending on the specific medical condition being treated. In some cases, such as hypercalcemia of malignancy, the effects of Zometa can be seen within a few days. However, for conditions like osteoporosis, it may take several months of treatment to observe significant improvements in bone density and fracture risk reduction. Conclusion: Zometa is a powerful medication that offers numerous benefits in the management of bone-related conditions. By understanding its mechanism of action and medical applications, individuals can appreciate the potential advantages of Zometa therapy. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and administration guidelines while being aware of potential side effects and drug interactions. Consulting with healthcare professionals is crucial to receiving personalized advice and ensuring the safe and effective utilization of Zometa. With its ability to prevent bone loss, manage osteoporosis, and treat bone metastases, Zometa continues to be a valuable asset in the realm of medical treatments for bone health.

[headspace-hotel]

I forget why, but I was on the Wikipedia page for polycystic ovarian syndrome, and I started researching hirsutism in women, and I learned the following things in this order:

there's a diagnostic criteria used to evaluate how hairy a woman is

This is important because being too hairy is a diagnostic criteria of most disorders that cause hyperandrogenism

Disorders that cause hyperandrogenism can be diagnosed by...measuring how hairy you are (this is the main and most important diagnostic criterion for PCOS)

Disorders that cause hyperandrogenism are important because they are correlated with obesity, infertility, and...being too hairy?

I think to myself, wait, what is a normal range for testosterone in women? I find this article...which set reference ranges for "normal" testosterone levels in women...EXCLUDING WOMEN WITH PCOS?

Quote: "Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is another notable condition in genetic (XX) females, which is characterized by excessive ovarian production of androgens. This condition is included for comparison with DSD, as the affected females with PCOS are genetic and phenotypic females. The elevated levels of testosterone in these females can lead to hyperandrogenism, a clinical disorder characterized variably by hirsutism, acne, male-pattern balding, metabolic disturbances, impaired ovulation and infertility. PCOS is a common condition, affecting 7%-10% of premenopausal women."

So: the study claims to demonstrate a clear distinction between the normal range of hormone levels in "Healthy" men and "healthy" women...with "healthy" being defined in the study as...having hormones within the "normal" range.......................

So I researched what the clinically established "normal" range for testosterone in women is

THERE ISN'T ONE????

Quote from the above article: "Several different approaches have been used to define endocrine disorders. The statistical approach establishes the lower and the upper limits of hormone concentrations solely on the basis of the statistical distribution of hormone levels in a healthy reference population. As an illustration, hypo- and hypercalcemia have been defined on the basis of the statistical distribution of serum calcium concentrations. Using this approach, androgen deficiency could be defined as the occurrence of serum testosterone levels that are below the 97.5th percentile of testosterone levels in healthy population of young men. A second approach is to use a threshold hormone concentration below or above which there is high risk of developing adverse health outcomes. This approach has been used to define osteoporosis and hypercholesterolemia. However, we do not know with certainty the thresholds of testosterone levels which are associated with adverse health outcomes."

What the fuck?

What the fuck?

It's batshit crazy to make a diagnostic criteria for medical disorders by placing arbitrary cutoffs within 2-5% of either end of a statistical distribution. What the actual fuck?

"The results came back, you have Statistical Outlier Disease." "What treatments are available?" "Well, first, we recommend dietary change. You should probably stop eating so many spiders."

Another article which attempted to do this

Quote: "Subjects with signs of hirsutism or with a personal history of diabetes or hypertension, or a family history of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) were excluded."

"We're going to figure out the typical range of testosterone levels that occur in women! First, we're going to exclude all the women that are too hairy from the study. I am very good at science."

Anyway I got off topic but there are apparently race-specific diagnostic tools for "hirsutism." That's kinda weird on its own but when I looked more into this in relation to race I found this article that straight-up uses the term "mongoloid"

[samreensway]

SURGICAL PATHOLOGY STATION OF PEPTIC ULCER DISEASE | HYPERCALCEMIA 

SURGICAL PATHOLOGY STATION OF PEPTIC ULCER DISEASE | HYPERCALCEMIA MRCS B OSCE - MOCK EXAM Bli medlem i kanalen för att få åtkomst till flera förmåner: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkkvon_blxinTHc7DGuYkpQ/join

[homunculus-argument]

So apparently my blood test results showed up, and the only things that are mildly fucky are things that have to do with having too much calcium in your blood - something that'd apparently explain the constant need to go through liquids like a big city sewer system - but besides the fatigue and endless pissing, the list of symptoms of hypercalcemia also includes anxiety and depression. I've got a doctor's appointmen in two weeks and I'm not going to jump into my own conclusions before hearing what they have to say, but wouldn't it be funny if my lifelong struggles with mental health issues that haven't been helped by antipsychotics, antidepressants or anything of the sort had - this whole time - been caused by

having too much bones in my blood.

[scientia-rex]

Good morning! I have a question. When I look up info about vitamin D, I come across many claims that people generally don't get enough of it. In a recent episode of Maintenance Phase, however, the hosts called it a "scam" or overblown, at least (I don't remember the exact wording). So, like, what's the deal with vitamin D? Do Americans get enough of it?

Probably, mostly. At the very least, people should be tested before starting repletion. It probably has a role in osteoporosis treatment and prevention, BUT how much to take and what form and when is HOTLY debated and frequently conclusions are changing.

Just to take you on a spin through the most recent Cochrane reviews (THESE ARE NOT SINGLE STUDIES, in case any of the research-naive out there want to get pissy about them; look up what a Cochrane review actually is before trying to shit on it; also note that I did NOT say this will cover every fucking person and every hypothetical they can come up with, jesus CHRIST):

No role for vitamin D in asthma

Insufficient evidence to recommend it in sickle cell

Raising vitamin D levels in cystic fibrosis patients is not beneficial

No evidence of benefit of vitamin D in MS

Supplementing vitamin D in pregnancy may have small benefits but also risk of harms

No clinically significant benefit from vitamin D supplementation in chronic pain

Insufficient data on vitamin D in inflammatory bowel disease, but no evidence of benefit

No evidence of benefit of vitamin D supplementation in liver disease

Vitamin D does not appear to prevent cancer in general population

No evidence for benefit in supplementation of vitamin D in premenopausal women to prevent bone density loss

Possible small mortality benefit of D3, but not D2, in elderly patients, but also increased risk of kidney stones and hypercalcemia

Vitamin D alone ineffective, but combined with calcium may be effective, in preventing bone fractures in older adults

Insufficient evidence for vitamin D improving COVID-19 outcomes

Now, vitamin D plus calcium in people who have post-menopausal bone density loss does seem to prevent fractures. This is why doctors routinely recommend it. However, dosage and formulation are still debated as data are insufficient, and uncertainty still large.

So, do you need to supplement? Probably not. There is some fairly weak evidence that vitamin D supplementation may help with depression, but I would argue that it's going to be most relevant in people with pre-existing deficiencies, which Medicare is just hellbent on not letting me test for anymore. They've narrowed the coverage codes for testing so now even know vitamin D deficiency isn't considered a good enough reason to test. So Medicare has very clearly decided it's not relevant, for whatever that's worth, I spit on their graves, etc. Of course, then you get into the question of what counts as a deficiency, which we also really don't know.

And to be clear, I wasn't looking through the Cochrane review results with an angle--those are most of the first page of search results on their site, with the only one skipped being similar to another one I mentioned, and I stopped when I got bored. These should not be paywalled, as I am not logged into anything and I can read it all, so try clicking the side menu on the right if you have trouble getting into the weeds.

If anything, running through this little exercise has made me less likely to recommend vitamin D supplementation, so do with that what you will.

[invincibleworld]

Take a look at this newly diagnosed Multiple

Myeloma (MM) case!

MM is a type of cancer developed by the overproduction of plasma cells in the bone marrow (B-cell lineage). Plasma cells are responsible for the production of antibodies to fight infection within the body.

Helpful lab findings

C- hypercalcemia

R- renal failure (increased CREA+BUN)

A- anemia

B- bone lesions

Confirmatory testing

1. Serum protein electrophoresis: spike in the gamma wave aka monoclonal paraprotein (M-spike)

2. Immunofixation protein electrophoresis: identifies the type of immunoglobulin (heavy chain) present (IgA, IgG, [gE, etc.)

3. Free Light Chain Assay: determine if the immuglobulin is

Kappa or Lambda

4. Bone Marrow aspiration: take a look at the first picture.

60% of the bone marrow is most likely plasma cells

Different types of MM

-Smoldering MM (increased plasma cells in bone marrow & high protein. Does NOT follow CRAB)

-MGUS (decreased plasma cells in bone marrow)

-Light chain amyloidosis

[mcatmemoranda]

[planetsallalign]

Just heard from the vet about Maeve’s blood panel.

It came back with no cancer indicators, so they think it is true idiopathic hypercalcemia. Her phosphorus was fine and her parathyroid level was low so it’s not hyperparathyroidism (so no surgery). She has to start a prescription wet food only diet. Which she is gonna be so mad because she only gets about 1/4cup of dry food a day but it’s her FAVORITE thing. I also have to mix 1/2tsp of chia seeds into her food once a day to bulk up the fiber. Which hopefully with the wet food only and chia seed the excess calcium will bind and be excreted out. Once we’ve been on the diet for a good 4 weeks she goes back for a blood test (luckily not the full panel just a tiny test) to check her ionized calcium levels. If all is good we go every 4-6 months to test how she’s doing. They think because she’s young that it will hopefully be years before any kidney failure. And if the calcium is going up instead of down she will be on steroids.

So here’s crossing everything that the diet works. I also definitely sobbed tears of relief after hanging up with the vet that it didn’t show any cancer indicators.

[csny]

who is more tormented: jesus or my kitty boy who needs eye drops twice a day and has asthma and hypercalcemia and now we are putting him in a harness and leash in hopes of showing him outside but it just makes him lie down and look sad

[fooltemps]

Leukemia and Lymphoma Awareness Flags!!

This flag was designed by us, as we currently have a family member with Leukemia and wish to bring awareness to this kind of cancer.

color meaning:

#FF2D34: Myeloma

#00DC0E: Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

#FF8C2E: Leukemia

#D12DFF: Hodgkin Lymphoma

Below is information all about Leukemia and Lymphoma Cancers.

Leukemia and Lymphoma are both cancers that are not associated with a tumor. Lymphomas are cancers that affect the lymph system and start in cells called lymphocytes. Leukemia is a cancer of the early blood-forming tissues, including your bone marrow and lymph system.

There are many types of lymphoma. Some grow and spread slowly and some are more aggressive. There are two main types of Lymphoma:

1. Hodgkin Lymphoma is cancer that starts in the B lymphocytes (B cells) of the lymph system. Your lymph system helps you fight infection and control the fluids in your body.

2. Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) is cancer that starts in the lymphocytes anywhere lymph tissue is found:

Lymph nodes

Spleen

Bone marrow

Thymus

Adenoids and tonsils, or

The digestive track.

Leukemia typically involves white blood cells, the cells that are your infection fighters. Leukemia can be divided into categories: fast growing (acute) and slow growing (chronic); and by which white blood cells are affected:

Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL)

Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML)

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL

Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML)

A screening test is used to detect cancers in people who may be at higher risk for developing the disease. With leukemia and lymphoma, there are no early detection tests. The best way to find them is to be aware of the symptoms:

Swollen lymph nodes which can appear as a lump in the neck, armpit or groin;

Fever

Night sweats

Weight loss without trying, and

Fatigue.

Leukemia can have similar symptoms but also can include:

Easy bleeding or bruising;

Recurring nosebleeds; and

Bone pain or tenderness

Myeloma is cancer of the plasma cells. Plasma cells are white blood cells that produce disease- and infection-fighting antibodies in your body. Myeloma cells prevent the normal production of antibodies, leaving your body's immune system weakened and susceptible to infection. The multiplication of myeloma cells also interferes with the normal production and function of red and white blood cells. An abnormally high amount of these dysfunctional antibodies in the bloodstream can cause kidney damage. Additionally, the myeloma cells commonly produce substances that cause bone destruction, leading to bone pain and/or fractures.

Myeloma cells are produced in the bone marrow, the soft tissue inside your bones. Sometimes myeloma cells will travel through your blood stream and collect in other bones in your body. Because myeloma frequently occurs at many sites in the bone marrow, it is often referred to as multiple myeloma.

Signs and symptoms of myeloma include the following:

Hypercalcemia (excessive calcium in the blood)

Anemia (shortage or reduced function of red blood cells)

Renal damage (kidney failure)

Susceptibility to infection

Osteoporosis, bone pain, bone swelling, or fracture

High protein levels in the blood and/or urine

Weight loss

In 2022, more than 62,650 people are expected to be diagnosed with leukemia. In addition:

Leukemia accounts for 3.6% of all new cancer cases.

The overall 5-year survival rate for leukemia has more than quadrupled since 1960.

62.7% of leukemia patients survive 5 years or more.

The diagnosis of leukemia requires specific blood tests, including an examination of cells in the blood and marrow.

Treatment and prognosis depend on the type of blood cell affected and whether the leukemia is acute or chronic. Chemotherapy and blood and marrow transplant are often used to treat leukemia.

If you wish to read more about Leukemia and Lymphoma cancer, please visit this website!

[necrofuturism]

so if my kidney stones are due to hypercalcemia that's not caused by parathyroid dysfunction that basically leaves cancer and vitamin d overconsumption (and a handful of other things) as the causes, or its just idiopathic because my kidneys are idiots i guess?

this vexes me

[anakintwolegs]

Arya is still doing great with her new food and meds! She goes for a bloodwork recheck for her hypercalcemia and a couple weeks. Here is a little photo shoot, where she made a cute bleep! Post your cat’s bleep pictures! We want to see them all! 😻❤️

[jaxyscreams]

cannot mcfucking sleep bc hypercalcemia is kicking my ass

so now I’m listening to my book writing playlist but stuck thinking about the little choices that have the big consequences of bringing delightful ppl into our lives

Like, I joined a board game & ttrpg game club a few years ago and that is where I met my current partner :,3 we met and bonded over playing dnd together

I just- how we met and got together is such a good meet cute

The slow building of feelings and the finally kissing a few hours after celebrating new years together

Also the joy of having an easy to remember anniversary date is immense

And it’s so nice to date another autistic person