National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

Hyperfunction of the parathyroid glands primarily contributes to the development of which condition?

1. Cardiac arrhythmias

2. Osteopenia

3. Muscle spasms

4. Obesity

The correct answer is: Osteopenia

Hyperfunction of the parathyroid glands, also known as hyperparathyroidism, leads to an increased secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH plays a crucial role in regulating calcium levels in the blood by increasing the release of calcium from bones, enhancing intestinal absorption of calcium, and promoting renal tubular reabsorption of calcium. With excessive PTH secretion, there is an increased mobilization of calcium from the bones. Over time, this can result in a decrease in bone density and strength, contributing to the development of osteopenia, which is characterized by lower-than-normal bone mass and a higher risk of fractures. The other conditions mentioned—cardiac arrhythmias, muscle spasms, and obesity—are not directly attributed to the hyperfunction of the parathyroid glands in the same way. While high calcium levels can indeed cause cardiac arrhythmias and may cause muscle weakness, the most significant and direct outcome of hyperparathyroidism is the negative impact on bone density, leading to osteopenia. Thus, osteopenia stands out as the primary condition associated with hyperfunction of the parathyroid glands.