Which physical examination finding is classically associated with hypocalcemia due to hypoparathyroidism?

Which physical examination finding is classically associated with hypocalcemia due to hypoparathyroidism?

• A. Tinel sign
• B. Romberg sign
• C. Chvostek sign
• D. Kernig sign

Answer: (C)

Low calcium from hypoparathyroidism increases neuromuscular excitability, so a classic bedside finding is a facial nerve–related twitch when the area in front of the ear is tapped. This Chvostek sign reflects hyperresponsiveness of nerves due to hypocalcemia and is often accompanied by tingling around the mouth, cramps, or carpopedal spasm. Other signs like tapping over a nerve to elicit tingling (Tinel), a balance/coordination test (Romberg), or meningeal irritation tests (Kernig) do not specifically point to hypocalcemia from hypoparathyroidism.

Low calcium from hypoparathyroidism increases neuromuscular excitability, so a classic bedside finding is a facial nerve–related twitch when the area in front of the ear is tapped. This Chvostek sign reflects hyperresponsiveness of nerves due to hypocalcemia and is often accompanied by tingling around the mouth, cramps, or carpopedal spasm. Other signs like tapping over a nerve to elicit tingling (Tinel), a balance/coordination test (Romberg), or meningeal irritation tests (Kernig) do not specifically point to hypocalcemia from hypoparathyroidism.