What complication is associated with hypoparathyroidism?

Hypoparathyroidism is a condition characterized by low levels of parathyroid hormone, leading to decreased calcium levels in the blood (hypocalcemia) and potential complications arising from this deficiency. One of the notable complications associated with hypoparathyroidism includes cardiac issues, particularly related to calcium dynamics.

When calcium levels are low, it can affect cardiac function, leading to potential complications such as refractory heart failure. This happens because calcium plays a critical role in the contractility of cardiac muscles and overall heart function. The impaired calcium homeostasis can result in arrhythmias, decreased myocardial contractility, and eventually heart failue, particularly when the body cannot compensate for the low calcium levels.

The other options do not have a direct, commonly acknowledged link with hypoparathyroidism. For instance, acute kidney injury may arise from other causes but is not a typical complication of hypoparathyroidism. Similarly, respiratory failure and gastrointestinal bleeding also do not typically arise as direct sequelae of hypoparathyroidism. Hence, refractoriness in heart failure is a relevant concern for patients with inadequate parathyroid hormone levels due to its integral role in maintaining proper calcium levels for cardiac health.