Glossary

ADH1
Active Vitamin D Calcitriol

1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D; the enzyme 1-alpha-hydroxylase converts inactive vitamin D (25-hydroxyvitamin D) into active vitamin D (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D) within the kidney to regulate calcium and phosphorus absorption.

ADH1Autosomal Dominant Hypocalcemia Type 1

A genetic form of hypoparathyroidism caused by gain-of-function variants in the calcium-sensing receptor gene.1

Arrhythmia

An irregular heartbeat.

Basal Ganglia Calcification

Abnormal accumulation of calcium deposits in the brain.1,2

CASR(gene)

Calcium-sensing receptor gene which encodes the calcium-sensing receptor protein. Activating or gain-of-function variants within this gene are causitive of ADH1.1,3

CaSR(protein)

Calcium-sensing receptor. A G protein-coupled receptor which is highly expressed in the parathyroid glands and kidney to regulate circulating calcium concentrations by altering parathyroid hormone secretion and urinary calcium excretion, respectively.1,2

Calcilytics

CaSR negative allosteric modulators designed to increase PTH secretion and decrease renal calcium excretion.4

Cataracts

The clouding of a normally clear lens in the eye.

CKDChronic Kidney Disease

Gradual loss of kidney function (inability to filter waste, toxins, and excess fluid).

Chvostek's Sign

An involuntary twitching of facial muscles, specifically around the mouth, nose, or eye in response to tapping the facial nerve. A positive Chvostek's sign represents hypocalcemia.5

eGFR

Estimated glomerular filtration rate; a measurement of kidney function.

Hypercalciuria

Excessive excretion of calcium in the urine.6

Hyperphosphatemia

High phosphate levels in the blood.7

Hypocalcemia

Low calcium levels in the blood.8

Laryngospasm

Sudden and involuntary closure or spasm of vocal cords that obstruct the airway, making it difficult to breathe.1

Nephrocalcinosis

Deposition of calcium in the kidney.9

Nephrolithiasis

Formation of hard mineral/calcium crystals in the kidneys, also known as kidney stones.10

Paresthesia

Sensation of tingling, numbness or "pins and needles".1,10

Prolonged QT Interval

A heart rhythm disorder where the ventricles take too long to recharge between beats, which can increase the risk of dangerous abnormal heart rhythms.

PTH

Parathyroid hormone; secreted by the parathyroid gland in response to low calcium levels detected in the blood.11

Seizure

Abnormal electrical activity in the brain causing changes in consciousness and muscle control.12,13

Tetany

Involuntary muscle contractions that lead to painful muscle cramps and spasms.1

References