Obesity with developmental delay in infancy: a rare cause not to miss-pseudohypoparathyroidism

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Endocrinology
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• Obesity in infants can mask or be misattributed to developmental delays.
• Gross motor delay, seizures, and obstructive sleep apnea in infants warrant thorough investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of recognizing pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) in infants presenting with obesity and developmental delay.
• To emphasize the need for comprehensive management beyond addressing developmental aspects alone.

Main Methods:

• Case report of an infant with obesity, gross motor delay, seizures, and obstructive sleep apnea.
• Diagnosis of pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) confirmed.
• Medical management with calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium.
• Coordinated early intervention by developmental therapists and pediatricians.

Main Results:

• The infant diagnosed with pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) showed corrected developmental delay through integrated medical and therapeutic interventions.
• Successful management involved parenteral calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, and tailored developmental therapies.

Conclusions:

• Early recognition of correctable conditions like pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) is vital in infants with obesity and developmental concerns.
• Comprehensive management by developmental specialists, addressing both the underlying condition and developmental needs, leads to improved outcomes.