Parathyroid Cancer

Talking often with the doctor is important to make informed decisions about your health care. These suggested questions are a starting point to help you learn more about your cancer care and treatment. You are also encouraged to ask additional questions that are important to you.

• Could my parathyroid tumor be cancerous?
• Can you explain my pathology report (laboratory test results) to me?
• Are more tests needed to determine if the tumor is cancerous?
• What are my treatment options?
• What clinical trials are open to me?
• Which treatment plan do you recommend? Why?
• Will I be treated for hypercalcemia? If so, why is this important?
• If I need surgery, how experienced is my surgeon in parathyroid surgery?
• How extensive will the surgery be?
• What can I expect from this type of surgery?
• Is the rapid “parathyroid test” available in the operating room to determine if all abnormal tissue has been removed?
• Who will be part of my health care team, and what does each member do?
• Who will be coordinating my overall treatment and follow-up care?
• What are the possible side effects of this treatment, both in the short term and the long term?
• How will this treatment affect my daily life? Will I be able to work, exercise, and perform my usual activities?
• Could this treatment affect my sex life? If so, how and for how long?
• Could this treatment affect my ability to become pregnant or have children? If so, should I talk with a fertility specialist before cancer treatment begins?
• If I’m worried about managing the costs related to my cancer care, who can help me with these concerns?
• What are the chances that the cancer will recur?
• What follow-up tests will I need, and how often will I need them?
• How can I keep myself as healthy as possible during and after treatment?
• What support services are available to me? To my family?
• Whom do I call for questions or problems?