Which mnemonic is often used to remember the effects of hyperparathyroidism?

The mnemonic "stones, bones, groans, psychic overtones" effectively captures the classic manifestations of hyperparathyroidism. This condition is characterized primarily by elevated levels of parathyroid hormone, which leads to increased calcium levels in the blood (hypercalcemia).

The different components of this mnemonic correspond to specific clinical manifestations:

• Stones refers to the increased risk of kidney stones due to calcium excretion in urine (nephrolithiasis).

• Bones indicates bone pain and potential fractures, as the disease can lead to bone resorption and osteoporosis.

• Groans points to gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and abdominal pain that can occur due to hypercalcemia.

• Psychic overtones encompasses the neuropsychiatric effects, including mood changes, depression, and cognitive dysfunction that can accompany the disorder.

This mnemonic serves as a concise way to remember the multi-system effects of hyperparathyroidism, aiding in the recognition and diagnosis of the condition. The other options do not encompass the wide array of symptoms linked to hyperparathyroidism or are related to other medical conditions.