The 26th Kuma Hospital Thyroid Seminar Held: Sharing Latest Insights on Primary Hyperparathyroidism

On March 7, 2026, the medical corporation Shinkokai Kuma Hospital (Chuo-ku, Kobe) held the '26th Kuma Hospital Thyroid Seminar' at the Hotel Okura Kobe. This academic seminar is held annually for the purpose of sharing the latest clinical insights and research findings on thyroid and parathyroid diseases.

This year's event focused on 'Primary Hyperparathyroidism,' with 436 medical professionals from across the country participating. The venue was filled with active discussions on the latest insights into understanding, diagnosing, imaging, and treating the condition.

The parathyroid glands, typically numbering four, are small organs about the size of rice grains located behind the thyroid gland near the base of the throat. The hormone secreted by these glands, called 'parathyroid hormone (PTH),' plays a vital role in regulating the calcium balance in the body and supporting the functions of bones, muscles, and nerves. Primary hyperparathyroidism, the theme of this event, is a condition where this hormone is secreted excessively, leading to high concentrations of calcium in the blood. This can result in osteoporosis, kidney stones, and general malaise. In recent years, an increasing number of cases are discovered through routine blood tests, and it is known to be particularly common among middle-aged and older women.

The seminar featured three lectures that provided a multi-faceted explanation from diagnosis to treatment. In his opening address, Dr. Takashi Akamizu, Director of Kuma Hospital, expressed gratitude for the daily clinical collaboration and cooperation, and shared his expectations for the seminar to serve as a platform for sharing the latest insights on primary hyperparathyroidism.

First, Dr. Itaru Kadono of the Department of Internal Medicine gave a lecture titled 'Pathology and Diagnosis of Primary Hyperparathyroidism: Including Vitamin D Metabolism,' discussing the fundamental approach and key points to note in diagnosis. Next, Clinical Laboratory Technician Moei Nishimura from the Physiological Function Laboratory gave a presentation titled 'Ultrasonography of Primary Hyperparathyroidism: To Increase the Success Rate of Localization Diagnosis,' detailing how to identify abnormalities using ultrasound. Finally, Dr. Akihiro Miya, Assistant Director of Kuma Hospital, spoke on 'Localization Diagnosis and Treatment of Primary Hyperparathyroidism: Including the Essence of Japanese Guidelines,' explaining treatment policies and surgical criteria based on Japanese clinical guidelines and the hospital's clinical experience.

In the closing remarks, Dr. Mitsuru Ito, Deputy Director of Kuma Hospital, expressed his gratitude to all participants, and the seminar concluded successfully. The lectures are available for viewing on the Kuma Hospital official YouTube channel.