Foreword

Hypercalcemia is a relatively common disorder, which requires specific treatment in order to control symptoms and prevent the development of organ damage. Since primary hyperparathyroidism and malignancy are responsible for more than 90% of all cases of hypercalcemia, greater interest was given in terms of developing the best strategy to manage these two critical situations.

The aim of this book is to present up-to-date knowledge on hypercalcemia, its association with renal disorders, and benign and malignant diseases, diagnostic methodologies, as well as surgical and medical treatment. Insights into the etiology, pathogenesis and pathophysiology of hypercalcemia are included in the first four chapters, also providing comprehensive descriptions of clinical features, diagnostic and treatment procedures in the specific diseases associated with hypercalcemia.

The other chapters present details on biochemical findings and ways to monitor complications and therapy, giving suggestions on the current imaging techniques, and deal with the criteria, procedures and results of surgical treatment of hypercalcemia, including unilateral and minimally-invasive parathyroidectomy. Finally, a specific chapter describes the pharmacology of anti-hypercalcemic drugs, also providing information on new drugs and future perspectives.

Uniquely, this book will serve as a complete reference source for oncologists, nephrologists, endocrinologists and other clinicians, as well as for biochemists and pharmacologists, and all those involved in hypercalcemia management and research.