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Definition of Hypocalcemia

Hypocalcemia is a condition characterized by a loss of calcium in blood. It can manifest as an acute condition, in which symptoms appear severely and suddenly, or it can be a chronic condition. There are numerous causes of hypocalcemia.

  1. Causes

    • The most common cause of hypocalcemia is absence of the parathyroid glands. Other causes include deficiencies of vitamin D or magnesium, cancer of the prostate or breast and kidney (renal) failure.

    Symptoms

    • Chronic hypocalcemia is commonly without symptoms. Acute hypocalcemia can produce seizure activity, muscle stiffness or spasms, bronchospasms and dermatitis.

    Considerations

    • Patients who experience renal failure or acidosis may fail to notice hypocalcemic symptoms. Patients under severe emotional stress may have extremely exaggerated symptoms.

    Diagnosis

    • The test for hypocalcemia consists of measuring the level of ionized calcium in a blood sample. Test results showing an ionized calcium level lower than 4.4mg/dl (milligrams per deciliter) indicate hypocalcemia.

    Treatment

    • Acute hypocalcemia is treated with intravenous calcium gluconate diluted with saline. If calcium is administered too quickly, it can lead to serious cardiac complications. Chronic hypocalcemia can be treated with calcium supplemented with vitamin D and taken orally.

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