Hypercalcemia and hypercalciuria in a critically ill patient.

Area of Science:

• Internal Medicine
• Nephrology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Critical illness presents complex diagnostic challenges, particularly with metabolic disturbances.
• Hypercalcemia and hypercalciuria can complicate patient management in intensive care settings.

Observation:

• A patient with prolonged critical illness experienced unexplained intermittent hypercalcemia and hypercalciuria.
• The clinical presentation necessitated a thorough differential diagnosis.

Findings:

• Immobilization and total parenteral nutrition (TPN) were identified as potential contributing factors.
• The interplay between critical illness, immobility, and nutritional support influences calcium homeostasis.

Implications:

• Understanding these factors is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management of calcium disorders in critically ill patients.
• This case underscores the importance of considering iatrogenic and environmental influences on calcium metabolism.