Signs of hypocalcemia after thyroid surgery?

• A. Rash
• B. Polyuria
• C. Numbness/tingling around the mouth, tetany
• D. Tremor

Answer: (C)

After thyroid surgery, damage or removal of the parathyroid glands can cause hypoparathyroidism and low calcium. The most telling signs are neuromuscular symptoms from low calcium, particularly numbness or tingling around the mouth and face, along with tetany (involuntary muscle contractions, especially of the hands and feet). Low calcium makes nerves more excitable, so these tingling sensations and muscle cramps are classic clues, and tetany is highly characteristic. Clinically, you might also see signs like Chvostek or Trousseau signs reinforcing the diagnosis.

Rash, increased urination, or tremor aren’t specific features of acute hypocalcemia after thyroid surgery. Rash isn’t related to calcium status; polyuria points more toward diabetes-related causes; tremor can occur with many disorders and isn’t a defining sign here. The combination of perioral numbness and tetany directly reflects the underlying calcium imbalance from impaired parathyroid function.