Question 1

What is Malignancy-associated Hypercalcemia?

Accepted Answer

Malignancy-associated hypercalcemia is a condition where cancer causes dangerously elevated calcium levels in the blood. It occurs when tumors produce parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) or other substances that disrupt normal calcium regulation. The Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) Intact test is the most important test for diagnosis because it helps distinguish cancer-related hypercalcemia from other causes of elevated calcium.

Question 2

What causes malignancy-associated hypercalcemia?

Accepted Answer

Malignancy-associated hypercalcemia is caused by tumors that produce parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) or other substances that increase calcium release from bones and enhance calcium absorption in the kidneys. Cancers most commonly associated with this condition include lung cancer, breast cancer, multiple myeloma, kidney cancer, and certain blood cancers like lymphoma. These tumors essentially hijack the body's calcium regulation system, causing calcium levels to rise to dangerous levels that can affect heart function, kidney health, and mental status.

Question 3

What is the best test for malignancy-associated hypercalcemia?

Accepted Answer

The Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) Intact test is the most important test for malignancy-associated hypercalcemia because it distinguishes cancer-related high calcium from other causes. In cancer-related cases, PTH levels are typically low or inappropriately normal despite elevated calcium levels, because tumors produce PTHrP rather than actual PTH. This pattern is different from primary hyperparathyroidism, where both PTH and calcium are elevated together. The test should be ordered alongside a calcium blood test to evaluate the complete picture and guide appropriate treatment decisions.

Question 4

When should I get tested for malignancy-associated hypercalcemia?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have a known cancer diagnosis and develop symptoms like excessive thirst, frequent urination, nausea, confusion, muscle weakness, or bone pain. Testing is also important if you experience unexplained fatigue, constipation, loss of appetite, or changes in mental status, especially if you have risk factors for cancer. Early detection through blood work is critical because untreated hypercalcemia can lead to kidney damage, heart problems, and severe neurological complications that require immediate medical intervention.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of malignancy-associated hypercalcemia?

Accepted Answer

Symptoms of malignancy-associated hypercalcemia include excessive thirst, frequent urination, severe fatigue, nausea and vomiting, constipation, and confusion or difficulty concentrating. You might also experience muscle weakness, bone pain, loss of appetite, irregular heartbeat, and in severe cases, personality changes or altered consciousness. These symptoms develop because high calcium levels affect nerve signaling, muscle function, kidney operations, and heart rhythm, making prompt diagnosis and treatment essential to prevent life-threatening complications.

Question 6

Who is at risk for malignancy-associated hypercalcemia?

Accepted Answer

People with lung cancer, breast cancer, multiple myeloma, kidney cancer, and certain blood cancers like lymphoma are at highest risk for developing malignancy-associated hypercalcemia. This condition affects approximately 20-30% of all cancer patients at some point during their illness, making it one of the most common metabolic complications of cancer. The risk increases with advanced-stage cancers, bone metastases, and certain tumor types that are more likely to produce PTHrP or cause direct bone destruction.

Question 7

What happens if malignancy-associated hypercalcemia is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated malignancy-associated hypercalcemia can lead to severe kidney damage or kidney failure due to calcium deposits and dehydration, life-threatening heart arrhythmias that can cause cardiac arrest, and profound neurological impairment including coma. The condition can also cause severe dehydration from excessive urination, peptic ulcers, pancreatitis, and irreversible bone weakening. Without treatment, calcium levels can rise to critical levels that are incompatible with life, making this a true medical emergency that requires immediate intervention to prevent permanent organ damage or death.

Question 8

Can malignancy-associated hypercalcemia be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, malignancy-associated hypercalcemia is diagnosed primarily through blood tests that measure calcium levels and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels. The characteristic pattern shows elevated calcium with low or inappropriately normal PTH levels, which distinguishes it from other causes of high calcium. Additional blood tests may include PTHrP levels, vitamin D levels, kidney function tests, and phosphate levels to confirm the diagnosis and assess complications. These blood tests provide definitive evidence of the condition and help doctors determine the underlying mechanism and appropriate treatment approach.

Question 9

How is malignancy-associated hypercalcemia treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment for malignancy-associated hypercalcemia includes aggressive intravenous hydration with saline to flush excess calcium through the kidneys, bisphosphonate medications like zoledronic acid to reduce calcium release from bones, and calcitonin for rapid but temporary calcium reduction. Doctors may also use denosumab, a medication that blocks bone breakdown, and dialysis in severe cases with kidney failure. The most important long-term treatment is addressing the underlying cancer through chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery, as controlling the tumor is essential for preventing recurrence of dangerous calcium levels.

Question 10

How can I prevent malignancy-associated hypercalcemia?

Accepted Answer

Preventing malignancy-associated hypercalcemia focuses on early cancer detection through recommended screening tests, prompt treatment of diagnosed cancers, and regular monitoring of calcium levels if you have a high-risk cancer type. Staying well-hydrated, limiting calcium supplements unless prescribed by your doctor, and maintaining regular follow-up appointments with your oncologist are important preventive measures. While you cannot always prevent this complication, early detection through routine blood work allows for immediate intervention before calcium levels become dangerously elevated.

Question 11

What can I do at home for malignancy-associated hypercalcemia?

Accepted Answer

While malignancy-associated hypercalcemia requires medical treatment, you can support your body by drinking plenty of water to help flush excess calcium through your kidneys and prevent dehydration. Avoid taking calcium supplements, antacids containing calcium, and excessive vitamin D unless specifically directed by your doctor. Gentle physical activity as tolerated can help maintain bone strength and overall health. However, it is critical to understand that home measures alone are not sufficient for this serious condition, and you must work closely with your healthcare team for proper medical management and monitoring.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
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                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
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            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
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            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
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Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
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            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Malignancy-Associated Hypercalcemia Blood Test

What is Malignancy-associated Hypercalcemia?

What causes malignancy-associated hypercalcemia?

What is the best test for malignancy-associated hypercalcemia?

When should I get tested for malignancy-associated hypercalcemia?

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