Hypercalcemia

Hypercalcemia is a condition in which the calcium level in the blood is above normal (8.8 mg/dL-10.8 mg/dL). Hypercalcemia is classified into mild hypercalcemia (10.5 to 11.9 mg/dL), moderate hypercalcemia (12.0 to 13.9 mg/dL), and hypercalcemic crisis (14.0 to 16.0 mg/dL).

Calcium plays an important role in nerve function, muscle contraction, activity of enzymes, normal heart rhythms, and clotting of the blood. It is present in the bones as calcium phosphate while a small percentage is found in the cells and extracellular fluids. 

Primary hyperparathyroidism and malignancy account for most of the cases of hypercalcemia. Other causes of hypercalcemia can include certain other medical disorders, some medications, and increased consumption of calcium or Vitamin D supplements. 

Signs and symptoms of hypercalcemia range from mild to severe depending on the amount of calcium in the blood. Excessive calcium in the blood can weaken the bones, create kidney stones, and interfere with how the heart and brain work. Treatment of hypercalcemia is focused on the cause of elevated calcium.