Kalkvanntesten

Kalkvanntesten, also known as calcium van tests, are diagnostic procedures used to assess the function of the parathyroid glands, which are responsible for regulating calcium levels in the blood. These tests are crucial in the diagnosis and management of conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, hypoparathyroidism, and other disorders affecting calcium metabolism.

There are two main types of kalkvanntesten: the calcium infusion test and the calcium suppression test. The calcium infusion test involves administering a calcium load to the patient and monitoring the response of the parathyroid glands. This test is typically used to diagnose primary hyperparathyroidism, where the parathyroid glands produce excessive amounts of parathyroid hormone (PTH). In contrast, the calcium suppression test assesses the body's ability to suppress PTH levels in response to an elevated calcium load. This test is often used to diagnose conditions such as familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia.

Both tests are performed in a clinical setting and require the patient to fast overnight before the procedure. The results of kalkvanntesten are interpreted based on the patient's baseline calcium and PTH levels, as well as their response to the calcium load. These tests are essential tools in the diagnosis and management of calcium-related disorders, helping healthcare providers tailor treatment plans to individual patient needs.