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Episode 42 – Hypoparathyroidism

Scott Giles PT, DPT, MBA
Posted 01/14/2025

Watch the video version of this Q&A episode on YouTube - https://youtu.be/NVHXCRYrWwA

A physical therapist treats a patient with hypoparathyroidism. Which of the following symptoms would MOST likely be associated with the patient’s medical condition?

1. Muscle cramps
2. Weight loss
3. Heat intolerance
4. Moon-shaped face

Transcript


Welcome back to the Scorebuilders’ Question and Answer Podcast! This podcast provides members of the Scorebuilders’ team with the opportunity to explore challenging multiple-choice examination questions with students actively preparing for the licensing examination. My name is Scott Giles and I will be your host for today’s journey.

Ready? Let’s go!

A physical therapist treats a patient with hypoparathyroidism. Which of the following symptoms would MOST likely be associated with the patient’s medical condition?

1. Muscle cramps
2. Weight loss
3. Heat intolerance
4. Moon-shaped face

Hypoparathyroidism
Hypoparathyroidism results from a decrease in secretion of parathyroid hormone by the parathyroid glands resulting in a decreased calcium level in the blood (hypocalcemia) and increased levels of phosphorus in the blood (hyperphosphatemia).

Let’s explore each of the options:

Option 1 - Muscle cramps 
Muscle pain or cramps in the legs, feet, low back or face are common symptoms associated with lower levels of calcium in the blood. Tetany, which is a sustained muscular contraction most commonly observed in the hands and feet, is often the principle manifestation of hypoparathyroidism. 

Other symptoms of hypoparathyroidism may include lethargy, paresthesias, cognitive deficits, cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, tetany, muscle pain, and cramps.

Option 2 - Weight loss 
Weight loss is more commonly associated with hypoadrenalism which is the result of decreased secretion of hormones by the adrenal cortex. 

Primary adrenal insufficiency is termed Addison’s disease.

Symptoms associated with hypoadrenalism include hypotension, weakness, weight loss, fatigue, and anorexia.

Option 3 - Heat intolerance 
Heat intolerance is commonly associated with Graves’ disease, which is a common cause of hyperthyroidism. 

The classic signs of Graves’ disease include mild enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter), heat intolerance, nervousness, weight loss, tremor, and palpitations.

Option 4 - Moon-shaped face 
Moon-shaped face refers to a rounded appearance of the face due to fat deposits on the side of the face. This condition is often associated with hyperadrenalism due to an overproduction of cortisol (Cushing’s syndrome) or an overproduction of aldosterone (Conn’s syndrome).

Symptoms associated with hyperadrenalism include moon-shaped face, fat accumulation often behind the shoulders known as a buffalo hump, fatigue, weakness, hypertension, and weight gain.

The correct answer is Option 1

Let’s explore the all student data:
35% of students selected Option 1, Muscle cramps, the correct response
19% of students selected Option 2, Weight loss
18% of students selected Option 3, Heat intolerance
28% of students selected Option 4, Moon-shaped face

System Classification
This question is an Other Systems question which represents approximately 21% of all exam items.

Content Outline Classification
This question is a Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, and Prognosis question which represents approximately 33% of all exam items.

Level Classification
This question is a Level 1 question since the question requires students to possess basic foundational academic knowledge. Remediation of Level 1 questions occurs through academic review of entry-level content using textbooks, review books, Basecamp, and flash cards.

Academic Focus Area
Looking to review related academic content? Check out page 541 in PTEXAM: The Complete Study Guide.

Thanks for joining us on the Scorebuilders Q and A podcast! See you next week!