Spontaneous hypoglycaemia in chronic renal failure

Spontaneous hypoglycaemia in renal failure occurs more frequently than is considered generally. The pathogenesis is complex. Understanding the underlying mechanisms is of interest to all practitioners attending patients with renal failure. A case report is presented describing a patient with 'spontaneous' hypoglycaemia, without any illness other than renal failure. The various mechanisms contributing to or causing hypoglycaemia are reviewed.