Diseases
neonatal hypocalcemia
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Neonatal hypocalcemia usually occurs within the first 2 days of life and is most often caused by prematurity, being small for gestational age, maternal diabetes or hyperparathyroidism, and perinatal asphyxia. Neonates may have hypotonia, tachycardia, tachypnea, apnea, poor feeding, jitteriness, tetany, and/or seizures.
Symptoms
- muscle twitches
- tremors
- irritability
- jitteriness
Causes
- iatrogenic causes usually involve too-rapid iv infusions of dextrose during the first few days of life in very low-birth-weight infants (< 1.5 kg).
Risk factors
- common in babies who are premature or who have a low birth weight.
Diagnosis
- physical exam
- serum glucose testing
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is neonatal hypocalcemia?
Neonatal hypocalcemia usually occurs within the first 2 days of life and is most often caused by prematurity, being small for gestational age, maternal diabetes or hyperparathyroidism, and perinatal asphyxia. Neonates may have hypotonia, tachycardia, tachypnea, apnea, poor feeding, jitteriness, tetany, and/or seizures.
What are the symptoms of neonatal hypocalcemia?
muscle twitches, tremors, irritability, jitteriness
What causes neonatal hypocalcemia?
iatrogenic causes usually involve too-rapid iv infusions of dextrose during the first few days of life in very low-birth-weight infants (< 1.5 kg).
Which medicines are used for neonatal hypocalcemia?
alfacalcidol
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