Hypercalcemia in adults is classically described by which mnemonic?

• A. Bones, Stones, Moans, and Groans
• B. Pains and fevers
• C. Headache and dizziness
• D. Cough and dyspnea

Answer: (A)

Hypercalcemia tends to produce symptoms across multiple organ systems, and the classic way to remember them is the mnemonic Bones, Stones, Moans, and Groans. “Bones” refers to bone pain and increased fracture risk from accelerated bone resorption. “Stones” points to calcium-containing kidney stones. “Groans” describes abdominal symptoms like constipation, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and anorexia. “Moans” highlights neuropsychiatric and constitutional symptoms such as fatigue, confusion, depression, or lethargy. This pattern is widely taught because it neatly summarizes the typical clinical picture and guides and reinforces recall in exams. The other options don’t encapsulate this characteristic constellation of findings, so they don’t fit as well.