skip to main content

Malignancy-related hypercalcaemia — SCE Endocrinology MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyCalcium/BoneMalignancy-related hypercalcaemiaSCE Endocrinology

A 72-year-old man with metastatic squamous lung cancer presents confused. Calcium is 3.45 mmol/L, PTH is suppressed and creatinine is 145 micromol/L. What is the most appropriate initial management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: BIntravenous 0.9% sodium chloride rehydration

Severe symptomatic hypercalcaemia needs urgent isotonic saline rehydration before antiresorptive therapy is considered. PTH suppression points away from primary hyperparathyroidism. Cinacalcet may help selected PTH-mediated disease but is not the first resuscitative step here.

Reference: Society for Endocrinology Hypercalcaemia Guidance; BNF