Severe hypercalcaemia in a child secondary to use of alternative therapies

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Endocrinology
• Clinical Case Study

Background:

• Autism spectrum disorder in children.
• Use of alternative therapies and supplements in pediatric care.
• Potential risks of high-dose calcium and vitamin D supplementation.

Observation:

• A 4-year-old boy with autism presented with acute vomiting, weight loss, anorexia, polyuria, and polydipsia.
• Initial laboratory results showed a markedly elevated corrected calcium level, peaking at 4.46 mmol/L.
• The patient's mother reported consulting an alternative therapist who recommended numerous supplements, including calcium and vitamin D.

Findings:

• The case highlights severe hypercalcemia in a pediatric patient.
• Treatment necessitated aggressive management including hyperhydration, calcitonin, furosemide, and pamidronate.
• Serum calcium levels normalized within two weeks of intensive medical intervention.

Implications:

• This case underscores the critical importance of monitoring supplement intake in children, especially those with pre-existing conditions.
• It emphasizes the potential for iatrogenic hypercalcemia from unregulated alternative therapies.
• Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for supplement-induced toxicity in pediatric patients presenting with hypercalcemia symptoms.