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Hypoglycaemia in non-diabetic pregnancy
Adam Morton1,2
1Obstetric Medicine, Mater Health, South Brisbane, Australia.
Obstetric Medicine
|July 13, 2023
Summary
Hypoglycaemia in non-diabetic pregnancy is rare. This case highlights opioid dependence causing adrenal insufficiency and low blood glucose, emphasizing the need for clinician awareness.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Obstetrics
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Hypoglycaemia in non-diabetic pregnancy is uncommon, often linked to conditions like insulinoma or acute fatty liver of pregnancy.
- Opioid dependence in pregnancy is a growing concern with significant health implications.
Observation:
- A case of recurrent hypoglycaemia in a pregnant woman with a history of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.
- The patient also presented with hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis insufficiency secondary to opioid dependence.
Findings:
- Low interstitial glucose levels were observed, atypical for late dumping syndrome post-bariatric surgery.
- Adjusting glucocorticoid replacement therapy led to the resolution of hypoglycaemic symptoms.
Implications:
- Opioid use during pregnancy can lead to hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis insufficiency.
- Healthcare providers must consider opioid-induced adrenal insufficiency and hypoglycaemia mechanisms in pregnant patients.
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