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Published on: June 20, 2018
Idiopathic infantile hypercalcemia and renal involvement
O Sakallioglu1, B Hacihamdioglu, N Balamtekin
1Pediatric Nephrology Unit, Gulhane Military Academy of Medicine, Ankara, Etlik 06018, Turkey. onursakallioglu@yahoo.com
Insights
Idiopathic infantile hypercalcemia is a rare condition causing high calcium levels in infants. This case highlights its severe kidney complications and the effectiveness of calcitonin in treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Idiopathic infantile hypercalcemia (IIH) is a rare disorder.
- Renal complications of IIH include nephrocalcinosis, distal tubular dysfunction, nephrolithiasis, and renal failure.
Observation:
- A two-month-old infant presented with IIH.
- The infant exhibited distal renal tubular acidosis (RTA) and nephrocalcinosis.
- Hypercalcemia persisted despite correction of acidosis and dehydration.
Findings:
- Calcitonin treatment was effective in ameliorating persistent hypercalcemia.
- Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial for managing IIH.
Implications:
- This case underscores the severe renal impact of IIH.
- Calcitonin is a viable therapeutic option for refractory hypercalcemia in IIH.
- Highlights the importance of timely intervention in pediatric hypercalcemia cases.
Abstract:
Idiopathic infantile hypercalcemia is recognized as a rare cause of infantile hypercalcemia. Its renal consequences include nephrocalcinosis with distal tubular dysfunction, nephrolithiasis, and finally renal failure. Herein we report the case of a two-month-old infant presenting with idiopathic infantile hypercalcemia complicated with distal renal tubular acidosis (RTA) and nephrocalcinosis. Despite correction of acidosis and dehydration, the persistant hypercalcemia could only be ameliorated with calcitonin treatment. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment is life-saving in such cases.
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