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Neonatal hypocalcaemia associated with rotavirus diarrhoea

A Foldenauer1, S Vossbeck, F Pohlandt

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, University of Ulm, Germany.

European Journal of Pediatrics
|November 11, 1998
PubMed

Insights

Rotavirus infection can cause low calcium levels (hypocalcaemia) in newborns, particularly those with severe diarrhea. Calcium levels normalized with treatment and improved symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neonatology

Background:

  • Hypocalcaemia is a potential complication in infants.
  • Rotavirus is a common cause of gastroenteritis in infants.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between rotavirus gastroenteritis and hypocalcaemia in infants.
  • To prospectively evaluate calcium levels in infants with rotavirus infection.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective study of 54 infants with rotavirus gastroenteritis.
  • Measurement of serum electrolytes and calcium (total and ionized) on admission.
  • Daily monitoring and calcium gluconate supplementation for infants with hypocalcaemia.

Main Results:

  • Twenty out of 54 infants (37%) developed hypocalcaemia.
  • Hypocalcaemia was associated with severe diarrhea.
  • Seven infants presented with convulsions; no neurological abnormalities were found.
  • Calcium levels normalized with clinical improvement and stool consistency, often without supplementation.

Conclusions:

  • Rotavirus gastroenteritis is a significant cause of neonatal hypocalcaemia.
  • Prompt monitoring and management of calcium levels are crucial in infants with rotavirus infection.
Abstract

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