Pediatric Hypocalcemia

Pediatric hypocalcemia is a condition in which there is not enough calcium within the bloodstream. Regular calcium levels are necessary for muscles and the heart to function appropriately. Also, proper calcium levels are vital for bone growth. General causes of hypocalcemia in babies include maternal diabetes, infection, premature birth and some medications. This condition can be caused by vitamin D deficiency, which may happen in breast-fed babies who are not given vitamin D supplements.

Types

• Pediatric hypocalcemia may arise at different times with different causes. For instance, early hypocalcemia takes place within the first three days of a child's life. On the other hand, late hypocalcemia occurs between the fifth to tenth days of life, usually after repeated formula feedings. A number of formulas have elevated levels of phosphate which can lower blood calcium levels.

Causes

• The factors of early hypocalcemia are not known whereas late hypocalcemia has numerous known causes, associated mainly with phosphorous and calcium levels within the body in addition to the function of the parathyroid hormone. Pediatric hypocalcemia is common in premature and low birthweight babies because their parathyroid glands are not mature. Also, it may happen in babies who have diabetic mothers.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of pediatric hypocalcemia may not be evident in infants. However, each baby may experience symptoms differently. The major symptom of hypocalcemia is neuromuscular irritability which may cause tingling and numbness of the mouth, toes and fingertips. Anxiety and fatigue can occur, in addition to muscle cramps that may be extremely painful and could develop into carpal spasms. In severe cases of hypocalcemia, laryngeal or bronchial spasm can occur. Hypocalcemia may result in memory loss, depression, hallucinations or damage to the eyes.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis of hypocalcemia can be made by taking a sample of blood serum and measuring the levels of vitamin D and parathyroid hormone. Hypocalcemia could be caused by several factors, so a complete diagnosis requires evaluation of the kidneys and parathyroid gland. Plasma magnesium absorption is also suggested.

Treatment

• Pediatric hypocalcemia may get better without treatment in some cases, particularly if there are no symptoms. Nevertheless, specific treatment for hypocalcemia will be determined by the doctor based on your baby's gestational age, overall health and medical history. Restoring normal calcium levels with calcium supplements is essential because ongoing hypocalcemia may result in deficient bone development which may lead to fractures later in life.