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Published on: November 16, 2011
Episodic spontaneous hypothermia potentially triggered by hyperinsulinemia
R Capanna1, M L Marcovecchio, A Verrotti
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy.
Hormone Research
|August 20, 2009
Summary
Episodic spontaneous hypothermia may be triggered by hyperinsulinemia, a condition of excess insulin. Flunarizine treatment, targeting serotonin pathways, reduced episodes in a young patient, suggesting a novel therapeutic approach.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neurology
- Genetics
Background:
- Episodic spontaneous hypothermia is a rare disorder with unclear causes, though the serotoninergic system is implicated.
- The case presents a young girl experiencing recurrent episodes of low body temperature, dizziness, and shivering since infancy.
Observation:
- The patient exhibited high insulin levels during an oral glucose tolerance test, suggesting hyperinsulinemia.
- Initial treatment with a low-carbohydrate diet was ineffective.
- Episodes recurred, leading to the suspicion of hyperinsulinemia-triggered hypothermia.
Findings:
- Treatment with flunarizine, a calcium antagonist, led to a significant reduction in hypothermic episodes.
- Subsequent endocrinological evaluation indicated decreased insulin secretion.
- The patient's response suggests a link between hyperinsulinemia, serotonin regulation, and hypothermia.
Implications:
- This case highlights hyperinsulinemia as a potential pathogenic mechanism for episodic spontaneous hypothermia.
- The findings suggest that interactions between insulin and the serotoninergic system may play a crucial role.
- Flunarizine's efficacy points to potential therapeutic strategies targeting serotonin pathways in such cases.
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