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Hypocalcaemic seizures: sign of intestinal disease?

S Van Biervliet1, S Vande Velde, E Robberecht

  • 1Department of paediatric gastroenterology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium. Stephanie.vanbiervliet@ugent.be

Acta Gastro-Enterologica Belgica
|August 25, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Congenital intestinal lymphangiectasia in infants can cause severe symptoms like convulsions. A specialized low-fat diet with medium-chain triglycerides effectively treated these symptoms, promoting normal growth.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Gastrointestinal Disorders
  • Medical Diagnostics

Background:

  • Congenital intestinal lymphangiectasia is a rare disorder affecting nutrient absorption.
  • It can manifest with diverse and severe symptoms in infants, including neurological and metabolic disturbances.
  • Protein-losing enteropathy is a significant complication.

Observation:

  • A case study of an infant presenting with convulsions, fever, hypoalbuminemia, and coagulopathy.
  • Diagnostic confirmation of congenital intestinal lymphangiectasia via endoscopy and histology.
  • Initial symptoms mimicked other neurological or metabolic conditions.

Findings:

  • Treatment with a low-fat diet supplemented with medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) led to complete symptom resolution.
  • The infant achieved normal growth and development post-intervention.
  • This highlights the efficacy of dietary management in this condition.

Implications:

  • Suggests considering protein-losing enteropathy in infants with unexplained seizures, electrolyte imbalances, and hypoalbuminemia.
  • Emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and tailored dietary interventions for congenital intestinal lymphangiectasia.
  • Provides a successful management strategy for a rare but serious pediatric condition.

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