After undergoing surgical removal of the thyroid gland, the patient begins to experience severe muscle spasms. What is the most likely cause?
A) Removal of the thyroid gland triggered a release of parathyroid hormone, which caused calcium to move from the bones into the blood.
B) Removal of the thyroid gland would suppress levels of calcitonin, and blood calcium levels would decline.
C) The parathyroid glands were most likely removed along with the thyroid, causing parathyroid hormone levels to decrease and blood calcium levels to decline.
D) Removal of the thyroid gland interfered with the activation of vitamin D, interfering with the ability of the intestines to absorb calcium from food.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The severe muscle spasms experienced by the patient are likely due to hypocalcemia, which can occur if the parathyroid glands are inadvertently removed or damaged during thyroidectomy. The parathyroid glands regulate calcium levels in the blood, and their removal leads to a decrease in parathyroid hormone levels, causing blood calcium levels to decline.

After Undergoing Surgical Removal of the Thyroid Gland, the Patient