What are the hallmark symptoms associated with hypercalcemia?

The hallmark symptoms associated with hypercalcemia are often summarized by the phrase "stones, bones, groans, and psychiatric overtones." This mnemonic helps healthcare professionals remember the key manifestations of elevated calcium levels in the body.

• "Stones" refers to the increased risk of kidney stones due to calcium saturation in the urine.

• "Bones" indicates bone pain or osteoporosis as the body may leach calcium from the bones to maintain serum levels.

• "Groans" describes gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain, which can occur due to the effects of high calcium on gut motility.

• "Psychiatric overtones" encompasses neuropsychiatric symptoms, including confusion, lethargy, or even depression, reflecting the impact of hypercalcemia on the central nervous system.

This mnemonic effectively captures the diverse clinical picture of hypercalcemia, making it a valuable tool for both diagnosis and education in internal medicine. The other options do not encapsulate the key symptoms associated with hypercalcemia, focusing instead on unrelated or less specific symptoms.