**Core Concept**
The patient's presentation suggests primary hyperparathyroidism, characterized by elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels leading to increased bone resorption, renal phosphate excretion, and increased intestinal calcium absorption. This results in hypercalcemia, but in this case, the patient has low serum calcium, indicating a different underlying condition.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is **B. 24-hour urine calcium collection**. This test is least contributory in the diagnosis of this patient's condition. The 24-hour urine calcium collection is useful in diagnosing conditions like familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia (FHH) where patients have elevated PTH, but low urine calcium. However, in this case, the patient has low serum calcium, making this test less relevant.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Serum creatinine levels can be useful in assessing renal function, which may be affected in conditions like primary hyperparathyroidism. Elevated PTH can lead to hypercalcemia, which in turn can cause renal impairment.
**Option C:** Bone density scans can help assess the extent of bone resorption and osteoporosis, which can be a consequence of elevated PTH levels.
**Option D:** Measurement of alkaline phosphatase levels can help differentiate between bone and liver diseases, as both can cause elevated alkaline phosphatase levels.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In patients with primary hyperparathyroidism, it's essential to assess for symptoms of hypercalcemia, such as nephrolithiasis, and to monitor for complications like osteoporosis and renal impairment.
**Correct Answer:** B. 24-hour urine calcium collection.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.