Maltodextrin May Be a Promising Treatment Modality After Near-total Pancreatectomy in Infants Younger Than Six Months...

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI) presents a significant challenge in infant metabolic management.
• Persistent hypoglycemia affects nearly half of CHI cases, often persisting after near-total pancreatectomy.
• Maltodextrin is suggested for infants under six months, but its efficacy in persistent hypoglycemia remains unclear.

Observation:

• A male infant diagnosed with congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI) exhibited persistent, severe hypoglycemia.
• The infant's condition remained refractory to multiple medical therapies and a near-total pancreatectomy.
• Hypoglycemic episodes were monitored closely to assess dietary interventions.

Findings:

• Dietary supplementation with maltodextrin was introduced to manage the infant's persistent hypoglycemia.
• The addition of maltodextrin to the infant's nutritional regimen led to successful control of hypoglycemic episodes.
• This intervention demonstrated a significant improvement in metabolic stability.

Implications:

• Maltodextrin may be an effective therapeutic option for managing refractory hypoglycemia in infants with CHI.
• This case highlights the potential role of specific carbohydrate supplementation in complex metabolic disorders.
• Further research is warranted to confirm maltodextrin's efficacy and optimal use in pediatric congenital hyperinsulinism.