Hypercalcemia due to increased PTHrP is commonly associated with which type of cancers?

Prepare for USMLE Step 1 Pathology Exam with comprehensive quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations. Enhance your understanding and be exam-ready!

Hypercalcemia due to increased parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP) is a paraneoplastic syndrome commonly seen in various malignancies. PTHrP mimics the action of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and leads to elevated calcium levels through increased bone resorption, renal tubular reabsorption of calcium, and increased intestinal calcium absorption.

Breast and ovarian cancers are known to secrete PTHrP, contributing to hypercalcemia in patients. Similarly, squamous cell carcinomas of the lung and head and neck region also produce PTHrP, causing the same physiological effects. Renal and bladder carcinomas can include paraneoplastic syndromes, but are more typically associated with other mechanisms of hypercalcemia.

Because PTHrP can be released by all of these cancer types, the presence of hypercalcemia can manifest through different cancers, which supports the association of elevated calcium levels with breast, ovarian, and squamous cell carcinomas among others. Hence, it is correct that hypercalcemia due to increased PTHrP can be associated with all of these cancers.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy