Perinatal magnesium metabolism: personal data and challenges for the 1990s

This review addresses recent developments in the field of perinatal magnesium (Mg) metabolism. After a brief review of perinatal Mg physiology, it critically addresses the issue of possible teratogenicity of Mg deficiency; maternal hypermagnesaemia and its effects on pregnancy, the fetus, and the newborn; the role of Mg in neonatal calcium homeostasis; and the possible relationship between Mg deficiency, apnoea of prematurity, and sudden infant death syndrome.