Use of a gamma probe to identify and guide resection of recurrent parathyroid carcinoma: report of a case

Surg Today. 2011 Feb;41(2):237-41. doi: 10.1007/s00595-009-4233-0. Epub 2011 Jan 26.

Abstract

Parathyroid carcinoma (PC) accounts for less than 0.005% of all cancers and less than 5% of causes of hyperparathyroidism. This tumor is difficult to identify during surgery, which is detrimental to the oncologic results. Surgery is still the main treatment for the primary tumor and to control parathyroid hormone levels after recurrence. We report a case of recurrent parathyroid carcinoma in a 30-year-old man, identified and managed with the use of a gamma probe during surgery. To our knowledge, this is only the second report of a gamma probe being used to guide resection of a recurrent PC. We discuss the diagnosis and treatment, analyzing the current evidence-based literature.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Carcinoma / diagnostic imaging*
  • Carcinoma / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local
  • Parathyroid Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Parathyroid Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Radionuclide Imaging
  • Technetium Tc 99m Sestamibi

Substances

  • Technetium Tc 99m Sestamibi