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Severe hypocalcemia and hypophosphatemia following Denosumab administration in a multi-comorbidity patient
Anuja Sagdeo1, Mahmoud Elshehawy2, Chadi Rakieh3
1Diabetes and Endocrinology, The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospitals NHS Trust, UK.
Insights
This case study highlights denosumab-induced hypocalcemia and hypophosphatemia in an elderly patient with osteoporosis. Management involved mineral supplementation and drug discontinuation, emphasizing vigilant monitoring for complex patients.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Geriatric Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Osteoporosis management in elderly patients often involves complex medical histories.
- Denosumab is a common treatment for osteoporosis, but potential side effects require careful consideration.
Observation:
- An elderly patient with osteoporosis and comorbidities developed severe hypocalcemia and hypophosphatemia during denosumab treatment, despite calcium and vitamin D supplementation.
- The patient's condition necessitated a multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach for management.
Findings:
- Discontinuation of denosumab was crucial for recovery.
- Intravenous and oral mineral supplementation led to gradual normalization of calcium and phosphate levels.
Implications:
- Vigilant monitoring for electrolyte disturbances is essential in patients receiving denosumab, especially those with multiple comorbidities.
- This case underscores the importance of individualized treatment plans and careful risk-benefit assessment when prescribing denosumab for osteoporosis in complex patients.
Abstract:
The case is presented of an elderly patient (DCP) with extensive medical history, including osteoporosis, who developed hypocalcaemia and hypophosphataemia whilst treated with denosumab, while prescribed concomitant calcium and vitamin D therapies. The management of this complex case involved a multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach, incorporating the patient's wishes. It included discontinuation of denosumab and intravenous (IV) and oral mineral supplementation that yielded gradual amelioration of calcium and phosphate levels. This case demonstrates the importance of vigilant monitoring and appropriate management in patients receiving denosumab, particularly those with multiple comorbidities. It carries important considerations for using denosumab for osteoporosis treatment in patients with complex medical backgrounds. Ethical clearance waiver was granted by the Trust Research Ethics Committee on 18/01/2024.
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