Question

A 45-year old female underwent thyroidectomy. On the 3rd day she developed perioral numbness. Further investigation involves:

• A. Free T3, T4
• B. RAI Scan
• C. Calcium, Phosphate and PTH levels
• D. T3, T4, TSH

Hint:

Perioral numbness after thyroidectomy is a common sign of hypocalcemia due to hypoparathyroidism. Early detection through PTH and calcium levels is critical for management.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The next step in this situation should be to measure the calcium, phosphate, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels. Perioral numbness can occur as a complication of thyroidectomy, especially if the parathyroid glands, which regulate calcium levels in the body, are accidentally removed or damaged during the procedure. The primary function of the parathyroid glands is to regulate calcium levels, and if they are damaged or removed, the levels of calcium, phosphate, and PTH in the blood can become abnormal. A measurement of the calcium, phosphate, and PTH levels can help to determine if the patient has developed hypoparathyroidism, which is a condition characterized by low levels of PTH and low calcium levels.