Neonatal hypocalcaemia

Definition

Most premature infants develop hypocalcaemia as the majority of fetal Ca accretion occurs in the third trimester. Critically ill or premature infants are exposed to many therapeutic interventions that may cause transient hypocalcaemia. Bicarbonate infusion, resulting in metabolic alkalosis, or transfusion with citrated blood, leading to formation of Ca complexes, decreases ionized Ca concentration.

Exclusions

• Transitory neonatal hypoparathyroidism

Index Terms