Hipocalcemia, hipomagnesemia y uso crónico de inhibidores de la bomba de protones / Hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia, and chronic use of proton pump inhibitors

Introducción: Los inhibidores de la bomba de protones son fármacos usados en múltiples gastropatías. El omeprazol pertenece a este grupo de medicamentos y es aprobado y catalogado como indispensable por la Organización Mundial de la Salud. Esto ha causado que su uso se vuelva constante y hasta cierto punto equívoco. Pese a ser medicamentos seguros muestran efectos secundarios, dentro de los cuales uno ocasional es el trastorno hidroelectrolítico. Objetivo: Presentar un caso clínico en el cual se constató la presencia de efectos secundarios tras el uso de un fármaco de uso constante por la comunidad médica: el omeprazol. Caso clínico: Se presenta a continuación el caso clínico de un paciente masculino con antecedente de hipertensión arterial y gastropatía crónica que muestra uso por 8 años consecutivos de inhibidores de la bomba de protones, al cual se le diagnostica hipomagnesemia e hipocalcemia. Se obtuvieron resultados de laboratorio normales tras administración de suplementos orales y uso de ranitidina con supresión de terapéutica con omeprazol. Conclusiones: Un control constante de los fármacos que usan los pacientes crónicos es fundamental en atención primaria de salud. El uso de inhibidores de la bomba de protones se ha convertido en rutinario y es necesario corroborar siempre la dosis y el tiempo de uso de los fármacos además de la relación con otros medicamentos que use el paciente(AU)

Introduction: Proton-pump inhibitors are drugs used in multiple gastropathies. Omeprazole belongs to this group of medicines; it is approved and classified as essential by the World Health Organization. This has permitted for its use to become constant and, to some extent, misleading. Despite being safe drugs, they show side effects, among which an occasional one is fluid and electrolyte disorders. Objective: To present a clinical case in which the occurrence of side effects was verified after the administration of a drug constantly used by the medical community. Clinical case: The following is a clinical case of a male patient with a history of arterial hypertension and chronic gastropathy, characterized by the usage of proton-pump inhibitors for eight consecutive years, diagnosed with hypomagnesemia and hypocalcemia. Normal laboratory results were obtained after oral supplementation and usage of ranitidine with suppression of omeprazole therapy. Conclusions: Constant control of the drugs used by chronic patients is essential in primary health care. The usage of proton-pump inhibitors has become a routine. It is always necessary to check the dose and time for using the drugs as well as the relationship with other drugs used by the patient(AU)

Preoperative vitamin D level as a post-total thyroidectomy hypocalcemia predictor: a prospective study / Nível pré-operatório de vitamina D como preditor de hipocalcemia pós-tireoidectomia total: estudo prospectivo

Abstract Introduction: Hypocalcemia is one of the most common complications after total thyroidectomy. Preoperative serum vitamin D concentration has been postulated as a risk factor for this complication. However, the subject is still controversial and the role of vitamin D in the occurrence of hypocalcemia remains uncertain. Objective: To evaluate the capability of preoperative vitamin D concentrations in predicting post-total thyroidectomy hypocalcemia. Methods: Forty-seven total thyroidectomy patients were prospectively evaluated for serum 25(OH) vitamin D, calcium and parathyroid hormone before surgery, Calcium every 6 hours, and parathyroid hormone 8 hours post-operatively. Patients were divided according to postoperative corrected calcium into groups without (corrected calcium ≥8.5 mg/dL) and with hypocalcemia (corrected calcium <8.5 mg/dL), who were then evaluated for preoperative 25(OH) vitamin D values. Results: A total of 72.3% of cases presented altered 25(OH) vitamin D preoperative serum concentrations and 51% evolved with postoperative hypocalcemia. The with and without hypocalcemia groups did not differ for preoperative 25(OH) vitamin D (p = 0.62). Univariate analysis showed that age (p = 0.03), postoperative PTH concentration (p = 0.02), and anatomopathological diagnosis of malignancy (p = 0.002) were predictors of postoperative hypocalcemia. In multivariate analysis only parathyroid hormone in postoperative (p = 0.02) was associated with post-total thyroidectomy hypocalcemia. Conclusion: Preoperative serum concentrations of 25(OH) vitamin D were not predictors for post-total thyroidectomy hypocalcemia, whereas postoperative parathyroid hormone influenced the occurrence of this complication.

Resumo Introdução: A hipocalcemia é uma das complicações mais comuns após a tireoidectomia total. A concentração sérica de vitamina D tem sido apontada como fator de risco para essa complicação. No entanto, o assunto ainda é controverso e o papel da vitamina D na ocorrência de hipocalcemia permanece incerto. Objetivo: Avaliar se os níveis pré-operatórios de vitamina D são capazes de predizer a hipocalcemia pós-tireoidectomia total. Método: Quarenta e sete pacientes com tireoidectomia total foram avaliados prospectivamente quanto aos níveis séricos de 25(OH)vitamina D, cálcio e paratormônio antes da cirurgia, cálcio a cada 6 horas e paratormônio 8 horas após a cirurgia. Os pacientes foram divididos de acordo com o cálcio corrigido no pós-operatório em grupos sem (cálcio corrigido ≥ 8,5 mg/dL) e com hipocalcemia (cálcio corrigido < 8,5 mg/dL), que foram avaliados em relação aos valores pré-operatórios de 25(OH)vitamina D. Resultados: 72,3% dos casos apresentaram concentrações séricas pré-operatórias alteradas de vitamina D- 25 hidroxi e 51% desenvolveram hipocalcemia no pós-operatório. Os grupos com e sem hipocalcemia não diferiram para a 25(OH)vitamina D pré-operatório (p = 0,62). A análise univariada mostrou que a idade (p = 0,03), a concentração de paratormônio no pós-operatório (p = 0,02) e o diagnóstico anatomopatológico de malignidade (p = 0,002) foram preditores de hipocalcemia no pós-operatório. Na análise multivariada, apenas o paratormônio no pós-operatório (p = 0,02) foi associado a hipocalcemia pós-tireoidectomia total. Conclusão: As concentrações séricas pré-operatórias de 25(OH)vitamina D não foram preditores de hipocalcemia pós-tireoidectomia total, enquanto o paratormônio pós-operatório influenciou a ocorrência dessa complicação.

Hipomagnesemia en recién nacidos con encefalopatía hipóxico isquémica en hipotermia corporal total / Hypomagnesemia in newborns with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy and whole-body hypothermia

Resumen: Introducción: En recién nacidos (RN) con encefalopatía hipóxico isquémica (EHI) en hipotermia se describen alte raciones metabólicas que se asocian a pronóstico neurológico. La hipomagnesemia ha sido reportada en la literatura, pero no es medida ni corregida en todos los centros de atención neonatal. Objeti vo: Evaluar la frecuencia de hipomagnesemia e hipocalcemia en RN con EHI en tratamiento con hipotermia corporal total y evaluar la respuesta al aporte de sulfato de magnesio. Pacientes y Méto do: Estudio prospectivo, observational y descriptivo en RN con EHI sometidos a hipotermia corporal total, hospitalizados entre los años 2016-2017. Se realizó medición seriada en sangre de magnesemia (Mg) y calcemia (Ca). Con Mg menor o igual de 1,8 mg/dl se administró suplemento como sulfato de Mg para mantener niveles entre 1,9 y 2,8 mg/dl. Se describió la frecuencia de hipomagnesemia e hipocalcemia y su presentación en el tiempo. Se realizó registro prospectivo de evolución clínica. Se hizo un análisis estadístico descriptivo, con medidas de tendencia central. Resultados: Se incluyeron 16 pacientes. Presentaron hipomagnesemia 13/16 (81,3%), la que fue precoz (6-36 h de vida), nor malizándose con aporte de sulfato de magnesio, requiriendo 2a dosis 4 de ellos. Presentaron hipo- calcemia 6/16 (37,5%). Conclusiones: La hipomagnesemia es frecuente (80%), similar a lo descrito en la literatura. Dado su importancia fisiológica debe controlarse y corregirse, de igual manera que el calcio.

Abstract: Introduction: In newborns with the diagnosis of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) treated with hypother mia, metabolic alterations are observed, which are associated with neurological prognosis. Hypo magnesemia has been reported frequently in the literature in these patients, but it is not measured or corrected in all neonatal healthcare centers. Objective: To evaluate the frequency of hypomag nesemia and hypocalcemia in newborns with HIE treated with whole-body hypothermia and to evaluate the response to the magnesium sulfate administration. Patients and Method: Prospective, observational and descriptive study in hospitalized newborns with the diagnosis of HIE and trea ted with whole-body hypothermia between the years 2016 and 2017. Serial blood measurement of magnesemia (Mg) and calcemia (Ca) was performed. When presenting an Mg level < 1.8 mg/dl, supplementation with magnesium sulfate was administered to maintain levels between 1.9 and 2.8 mg/dl. The frecuency of hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia and clinical evolution was registered. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed, with central tendency measures. Results: Sixteen ca ses were included, 13 of them presented hypomagnesemia (81.3%), with early-onset (6-36 hours of life), which was normalized with magnesium sulfate treatment, receiving a second dose 4 patients. Six of 16 patients presented hypocalcemia (37.5 %). Conclusions: Hypomagnesemia is frequent (80%), similar to that described in the literature, and should be controlled and corrected early, given its physiological role, in the same way that calcium is controlled.

Seudohipoparatiroidismo 1b / Pseudohypoparathyroidism 1b

RESUMEN El seudohipoparatiroidismo 1b se caracteriza por resistencia aislada a la parathormona, en ausencia de las manifestaciones típicas de la osteodisfrofia hereditaria de Albright; debido a alteraciones epigenéticas del locus GNAS. Puede presentarse de forma esporádica, o heredado de manera autosómico dominante por vía materna. Se presenta paciente masculino de 31 años, con antecedentes de tumores óseos y calcificaciones cerebrales diagnosticados a los 14 años; que se consulta por presentar mareo intenso, rigidez del cuello y la boca, dificultad para hablar y tragar, desorientación y trastornos de percepción; con fenotipo y somatometría normales, y signos de tetania latente (Chvostek y Trouseau positivos). Los estudios realizados mostraron: hipocalcemia, hiperfosfatemia, aumento de niveles de parathormona y múltiples calcificaciones en cerebro y cerebelo. Con tales hallazgos se emite el diagnóstico de seudohipoparatiroidismo 1b, el cual se confirma mediante pruebas moleculares con alteración en el patrón de metilación en el locus GNAS. No presentó alteraciones en el estudio de secuenciación de los 13 exones codificantes del GNAS. Se concluyó como un caso esporádico ante la ausencia de historia familiar de hipocalcemia, combinado con amplia pérdida de metilación del gen GNAS y la no evidencia de deleciones. Se presenta el primer reporte de esta enfermedad en Cuba con estudio molecular(AU)

ABSTRACT Pseudohypoparathyroidism 1b is characterized by isolated resistance to parathormone, in the absence of the typical manifestations of hereditary Albright osteodysphrophy; due to epigenetic alterations of the GNAS locus. It can occur sporadically, or inherited in an autosomal dominant way through the mother. We report the case of a 31-year-old male patient, with history of bone tumors and cerebral calcifications diagnosed at age 14. She came to consultation due to severe dizziness, stiff neck and mouth, difficulty speaking and swallowing, disorientation and perception disorders; he showed normal phenotype and somatometry, and signs of latent tetany (positive Chvostek and Trouseau). Studies have shown hypocalcaemia, hyperphosphatemia, increased levels of parathormone and multiple calcifications in the brain and cerebellum. These findings, pseudohypoparathyroidism 1b is diagnosed confirmed by molecular tests showing alteration in the methylation pattern in the GNAS locus. There were no alterations in the sequencing study of the 13 exons coding for GNAS. It was concluded as a sporadic case in the absence of a family history of hypocalcemia, combined with extensive loss of GNAS gene methylation and no evidence of deletions. This is the first report this disease with molecular study in Cuba(AU)

Medición de niveles de parathormona como predictor de hipocalcemia sintomática en el post-operatorio precoz de tiroidectomía total / Parathormone levels measurement as predictor of symptomatic hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy

Introduction: The most frequent complication after total thyroidectomy is hypocalcemia. It is difficult to predict it. The objective of this paper is determinate if measurement of parathormone 6 hours after total thyroidectomy can predict symptomatic hypocalcemia, and determinate associated factors in the development of this complication. Material and Method: Prospective case series. Patients that underwent total thyroidectomy between 2006 and 2008 in our Hospital. We registered epidemiological data, related surgery factors and measurement of parathormone 6 hours after surgery. Hypocalcemia symptoms were registered. We used statistical analysis considering significant p < 0.05. Results: We included 82 patients. Median age was 53.2 years. 79.3 percent were female. The average of parathormone 6 hours after surgery was 28.7 pg/dL. Sensibility was 100 percent, specificity 79.4 percent, positive predictive value 59.4 percent, negative predictive value 100 percent and accuracy 84.1 percent to predict symptomatic hypocalcaemia. A statistical association among levels under the normal base line of parathormone and symptomatic hypocalcemia was detected (p < 0.0001). Relative risk was 4.84. Univariated analysis showed association between hypocalcemia and pre-operative thyroid cancer diagnosis (p = 0.01), cervical dissection (p = 0.03) and level of parathormone (p = 0.002). Multivariated analysis showed that only the level of parathormone associates with hypocalcemia (p = 0.002). Conclusion: The measurement of parathormone allows identifying which patients are at risk of presenting symptomatic hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy.

Introducción: La complicación más frecuente de la tiroidectomía total es la hipocalcemia. Su predicción es difícil. El objetivo de este trabajo es determinar si la medición de parathormona a las 6 h posterior a una tiroidectomía total es un factor que pueda predecir la aparición de hipocalcemia sintomática y determinar los factores asociados al desarrollo de esta complicación. Material y Método: Serie de casos prospectiva. Pacientes intervenidos de tiroidectomía total entre 2006 y 2008 en el Hospital FACH. Se registraron datos epidemiológicos, factores relacionados a la cirugía y la medición de parathormona a las 6 h. Se registraron los síntomas de hipocalcemia. Se utilizó estadística analítica considerando significativo p < 0,05. Resultados: Se enrolaron 82 pacientes. La edad media fue 53,2 años. El 79,3 por ciento fue de sexo femenino. El promedio de parathormona a las 6 h fue 28,7 pg/dL. Se obtuvo sensibilidad 100 por ciento, especificidad 79,4 por ciento, valor predictivo positivo 59,4 por ciento, negativo 100 por ciento y precisión 84,1 por ciento para predecir hipocalcemia. Cuando los valores de PTH estaban bajo el margen normal, el riesgo relativo de hipocalcemia sintomática fue 4,84 (p < 0,0001). El análisis univariado mostró asociación entre hipocalcemia y el diagnóstico pre operatorio de cáncer (p = 0,01), la disección cervical (p = 0,03) y el nivel de parathormona a las 6 h (p = 0,002). El análisis multivariado demostró que sólo el nivel de parathormona se asocia con hipocalcemia (p = 0,002). Conclusión: La medición de parathormona es un elemento que permite estimar de manera adecuada qué pacientes están en riesgo de presentar hipocalcemia sintomática en el post-operatorio precoz de tiroidectomía total.

Predicting postoperative total calcium requirements after parathyroidectomy in secondary hyperparathyroidism

BACKGROUND/AIMS: To prevent hypocalcemia after parathyroidectomy (PTX), parenteral calcium is required in addition to oral calcitriol and calcium. After switching to oral calcium, patients can be discharged from the hospital. The aim of this study was to analyze the clinical characteristics and outcomes of PTX performed at a single Korean center and to investigate the associated laboratory factors used to analyze the total amount of postoperative calcium required. METHODS: We enrolled 91 hemodialysis patients undergoing PTX from November 2003 to December 2011. We collected clinical and laboratory data preoperatively, 12 and 48 hours postoperatively, at discharge, and 3 and 6 months postoperatively. RESULTS: In total, 59 patients underwent PTX with autotransplantation (AT), 6 underwent total PTX without AT, 11 underwent subtotal PTX, and 15 underwent limited PTX. Total PTX without AT showed the lowest recurrence rate. At all postoperative time points, the mean levels of serum calcium, phosphorus, and intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) decreased significantly, compared with preoperative levels; however, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) increased significantly from 48 hours postoperatively to discharge (p < 0.001). On multiple linear regression analysis, the total amount of injected calcium during hospitalization showed a significant correlation with preoperative ALP (p < 0.001), preoperative iPTH (p = 0.037), and Deltaphosphorus at 48 hours (p < 0.001). We developed an equation for estimating the total calcium requirement after PTX. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative ALP, preoperative iPTH, and Deltaphosphorus at 48 hours may be significant factors in estimating the postoperative calcium requirement. The formula for postoperative calcium requirement after PTX may help to predict the duration of postoperative hospitalization.

Diagnóstico diferencial del raquitismo hipocalcémico. caso clínico / Differential diagnosis in hypocalcemic rickets: a clinical case

Introducción: La hipocalcemia es un hallazgo infrecuente en los pacientes atendidos en los servicios de urgencia pediátricos. El raquitismo se puede presentar como una hipocalcemia crónica la mayoría de las veces asintomática, sin embargo, algunos pacientes presentan tetanias hipocalcémica. Objetivo: Presentar el caso clínico de una niña con raquitismo hipocalcémico, cuyo diagnóstico fue tardío. Caso clínico: Prescolar de 2 años 5 meses con alteración en la marcha, mal incremento ponderal, espasmos musculares y signos de raquitismo activo. Los exámenes revelaron hipocalcemia severa, normofosfemia, fosfatasa alcalina y PTH elevada y niveles normales de 25 hidroxivitamina D. Se manejó con calcio y calcitriol, y se diagnosticó raquitismo vitamina D dependiente tipo I. Conclusión: Los síntomas y signos clásicos de raquitismo, así como la hipocalcemia, deben hacernos plantear hoy en día el diagnóstico de raquitismo. Un mejor conocimiento de esta patología permitirá evitar el retraso en el diagnóstico y un tratamiento más oportuno.

Introduction: Hypocalcemia is rare in patients attending pediatric emergency services. Rickets can present as a chronic hypocalcemia often asymptomatic, poor growth rate, psychomotor delay and bone abnormalities, but some patients may present tetanic seizures. Although its incidence has decreased, a resurgence of rickets has been described. Objective: To present a case of a child with hypocalcemic rickets, whose diagnosis was delayed. Case report: Preschool of 2,4 years old with gait disturbance, poor growth rate, muscle spams and signs of active rickets. Laboratory results showed hypocalcemia, normophosphemia, alkaline phosphatase, high PTH and normal 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels. She received treatment with calcium and calcitriol and had a good response; Vitamin D dependent rickets type I was diagnosed. Conclusion: Classics signs and symptoms of rickets, as hypocalcemic manifestations, should lead us today to diagnose rickets. Better knowledge of this disease will avoid retarded diagnosis and give a suitable treatment.

Reversible dilated cardiomyopathy caused by idiopathic hypoparathyroidism

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is usually an idiopathic disease with a poor prognosis. Hypocalcemia is a rare and reversible cause of DCM. Here, we report a 50-year-old female with DCM, induced by idiopathic hypoparathyroidism, that improved after treatment with calcium.

Effectiveness of an i-PTH Measurement in Predicting Post Thyroidectomy Hypocalcemia: Prospective Controlled Study

PURPOSE: Hypocalcemia is the most common complication after total thyroidectomy. The purpose of this study was to determine whether measurement of intact parathyroid hormone (i-PTH) level in thyroidectomy patients could predict hypocalcemia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed a prospective study of patients undergoing total thyroidectomy. Serum concentration of i-PTH, total calcium (Ca), ionized calcium (Ca2+), phosphate (P), magnesium (Mg), and albumin were measured preoperatively and at 0 hour, 6 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours postoperatively. RESULTS: 108 patients were recruited to the study. A total of 50 patients (46%) experienced hypocalcemia. The serum i-PTH concentration was linearly related to the time of measurement, while concentrations of P, Mg, albumin, Ca, and Ca2+ were not. We compared odds ratios, and found that the concentration of i-PTH at 6 hours post operation was the most closely related to the occurrence of hypocalcemic symptom. On ROC analysis using i-PTH level at 6 hours, an i-PTH level of 10.6 mg/dL was found to maximize both sensitivity and specificity at the same time point. CONCLUSION: We found that i-PTH was a predictor of hypocalcemia, and that the earliest predictor of hypocalcemic symptoms was an i-PTH concentration lower than 10.6 mg/dL obtained 6 hours after total thyroidectomy.

Aplicabilidade da dosagem de paratormônio intacto imediato, tardio ou seriado após tireoidectomia total / Applicability of imediate, late or serial intact parathyroid hormone measurement following total thyroidectomy

Hipocalcemia é a complicação mais comum após tireoidectomia total. A dosagem de paratormônio intacto é eficaz para detectar pacientes com risco de desenvolver hipocalcemia sintomática pós-operatória. Todavia, existem divergências sobre qual momento seria mais adequado para a realização deste exame após a cirurgia. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a relação entre níveis séricos de paratormônio intacto dosados em diferentes momentos após tireoidectomia total e risco de hipocalcemia sintomática. MÉTODO:110 pacientes submetidos à tireoidectomia total foram observados para ocorrência de hipocalcemia sintomática associado à dosagem de paratormônio intacto (PTHi) 4h e 12h após a cirurgia. Realizada estimativa de probabilidade de hipocalcemia e avaliação dos resultados de desempenho para os diferentes tempos de dosagem de PTHi isoladamente e de forma seriada. Desenho: Estudo retrospectivo de série de casos. RESULTADOS: Dosagem de PTHi apresentou sensibilidade entre 90,3% e 96,8% para hipocalcemia sintomática e especificidade variando entre 77,2% e 87,3%. Não houve diferença significativa entre a sensibilidade do exame realizado após 4h, 12h ou seriada. Contudo, PTHi colhido 12h após a cirurgia apresentou a maior especificidade (p < 0,007) entre as dosagens. CONCLUSÃO: Dosagem única de PTHi colhida 12h após tireoidectomia pode ser utilizada como triagem para o risco de hipocalcemia sintomática.

Hypocalcemia is the most common complication after total thyroidectomy. Intact parathyroid hormone (i-PTH) testing is a proven effective method to detect patients at risk for postoperative symptomatic hypocalcemia. However, there is still uncertainty as to the timing of i-PTH testing in a clinical setting. OBJECTIVE: This study looked into the correlation between serum i-PTH levels measured at different times after total thyroidectomy and the risk of symptomatic hypocalcemia. METHODS: This retrospective case series studied a group of 110 consecutive for hypocalcemia and intact parathyroid hormone (PTHi) levels four and twelve hours following total thyroidectomy. Statistical analysis was used to evaluate the performance of isolated and serial i-PTH measurements to determine the likelihood of symptomatic hypocalcemia. RESULTS: I-PTH is highly sensitive (90.3%-96.8%) and specific (77.2%-87.3%) for symptomatic hypocalcemia. There was no significant difference in the sensitivity levels of the tests done four and twelve hours after surgery or in a serial fashion. However, the 12-hour i-PTH level was more specific (p < 0.0007). CONCLUSION: Single i-PTH testing done 12 hours after total thyroidectomy may be used as a screening test to detect patients at risk for symptomatic hypocalcemia.

Parathyroid hormone: an early predictor of symptomatic hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy / Hormônio da paratireoide: um preditor precoce da hipocalcemia sintomática após a tireoidectomia total

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate if the measurement of peri-operative parathyroid hormone (PTH) is able to identify patients with increased risk of developing symptoms of hypocalcemia. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Forty patients who underwent total thyroidectomy were studied prospectively. Ionized serum calcium and PTH were measured after induction of anesthesia, one hour (PTH1) and one day after surgery (PTH24). Patients were evaluated for symptoms of hypocalcemia and treated with calcium and vitamin D supplementation as necessary. RESULTS: Symptomatic hypocalcemia developed in 16 patients. Symptomatic patients had significant lower PTH1 and greater drops in PTH levels. The selection of 12.1 ng/L as PTH1 level cutoff level divided patients with and without symptoms with 93.7% sensitivity and 91.6% specificity. The selection of 73.5% as the cutoff value for PTH decrease resulted in 91.6% sensitivity and 87.5% specificity. CONCLUSION: PTH1 levels and the drop in PTH levels are reliable predictors of developing symptomatic hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy.

OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar se a medida perioperatória do hormônio da paratireoide (PTH) pode identificar os pacientes com maior risco de desenvolver sintomas de hipocalcemia. SUJEITOS E MÉTODOS: Foram estudados quarenta pacientes submetidos à tireodiectomia total. A medida do cálcio sérico e do PTH foi feita após a indução anestésica, uma hora (PTH1) e um dia após a cirurgia. Os pacientes foram avaliados quanto à presença de sintomas de hipocalcemia e tratados com suplementação de cálcio e vitamina D quando necessário. RESULTADOS: Dezesseis pacientes apresentaram sintomas de hipocalcemia. Os pacientes sintomáticos apresentaram PTH1 significantemente menor e queda no PTH significativamente maior. Usando o valor de 12,1 ng/L como corte, conseguimos distinguir pacientes com e sem sintomas de hipocalcemia com sensibilidade de 93,7% e especificidade de 91,6%. Utilizando como corte a queda de 73,5% no valor do PTH, temos sensibilidade de 91,6% e especificidade de 87,5%. CONCLUSÃO: O PTH1 e a queda no PTH são bons preditores de hipocalcemia no pós-operatório de tireoidectomia total.

Estudo prospectivo da hipocalcemia clínica e laboratorial após cirurgia da tireoide / Prospective study of clinical and laboratorial hypocalcemia after thyroid surgery

A hipocalcemia pode ser detectada clínica e laboratorialmente após a tireoidectomia. Objetivo: Analisar a incidência e fatores de risco da hipocalcemia clínica e laboratorial após cirurgia da glândula tireoide. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo prospectivo de 91 pacientes submetidos à tireoidectomia. Aspectos demográficos, intraoperatórios e anatomopatológicos foram correlacionados com os achados de hipocalcemia. Rresultados: Foram considerados fatores de risco para o hipoparatireoidismo clínico a faixa etária acima dos 50 anos (p = 0,022) e realização de cirurgia não parcial (p < 0,001). Foi considerado fator de risco para o hipoparatireoidismo laboratorial a 48 horas a cirurgia não parcial (p = 0,004). Não houve fator de risco para o surgimento do hipoparatireoidismo laboratorial a um mês. Houve significância entre hipotireoidismo laboratorial a 48 horas e a um mês. Conclusões: A extensão da tireoidectomia é fator de risco para o hipoparatireoidismo clínico e laboratorial, enquanto a faixa etária é fator para o hipoparatireoidismo clínico. A detecção de hipoparatireoidismo laboratorial com 48 horas de pós-operatório é fator predisponente para o hipoparatireoidismo laboratorial com um mês de pós-operatório, mas caracterizou-se o caráter temporário da maior parte dos casos.

Hypocalcemia can be detected clinically and through lab tests after thyroidectomy. AIM: To analyze the incidence and risk factors of clinical and laboratorial hypocalcemia after thyroid surgery. Methods: Prospective study of 91 patients undergoing thyroidectomy. Demographics, intraoperative, and pathological aspects were correlated to our hypocalcemia findings. Results: Age higher than 50 (p = 0.022) and complete thyroidectomy (p < 0.001) were considered risk factors for hypoparathyroidism. Complete thyroidectomy was considered a risk factor for the 48-hour laboratorial hypoparathyroidism (p = 0.004). There was no risk factor associated with the one-month laboratorial hypoparathyroidism. There was significance between the 48-hour and the one-month laboratorial hypoparathyroidism. Conclusions: Thyroidectomy extension is a risk factor for both the clinical and laboratorial hypoparathyroidism, whereas age is a risk factor for clinical hypoparathyroidism. The detection of 48-hour laboratorial hypoparathyroidism is a predisposing factor for the one-month laboratorial hypoparathyroidism. However, most of the cases were temporary.

Autosomal Dominant Hypocalcemia Caused by an Activating Mutation of the Calcium-Sensing Receptor Gene: The First Case Report in Korea

Hypoparathyroidism is an abnormality of calcium metabolism characterized by low serum levels of parathyroid hormone in spite of hypocalcemia. The causes of hypoparathyroidism are numerous. Activating mutations in the calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) gene are well-known causes of familial isolated hypoparathyroidism, also known as autosomal dominant hypocalcemia (ADH). Here we describe members of a Korean family with a heterozygous Pro221Leu mutation causing ADH. This case is the first report in Korea.

O eletrocardiograma em outras situações de grande impacto clínico / The electrocardiogram in great impact clinical setting

Apesar de ter completado 100 anos de existência, o eletrocardiograma ainda é o primeiro exame complementar solicitado para avaliação cardiológica de um paciente. A incorporação de modernos recursos da eletrônica e da informática desenvolveu muito os eletrocardiográfos, mas as bases do registro do sinal elétrico emitido pelo coração permanecem as mesmas. Entretanto, ao longo do século XX, os conhecimentos adquiridos a partir do eletrocardiograma não permaneceram estáticos. A eletrofisiologia clínica contribuiu muito para elucidar os mecanismos das arritmias cardíacas. O reconhecimento de novas doenças diagnosticáveis apenas pelo eletrocardiograma, como as síndromes do QT longo e de Brugada, causadas por modificações genéticas dos canais iônicos, transformou o eletrocardiograma em mensageiro molecular das células do coração. No infarto agudo do miocárdio, estudos baseados em evidências...

Hypocalcemia with bony metastases in prostate cancer

A 65 year old man presented with a two-month history of low back pain and fatigue and urinary symptoms over the preceding month. He was found to have had a hepatomegaly and a large nodular prostate on rectal examination. Investigations revealed a normal full blood count and renal profile, raised alkaline phosphatise and Prostate Specific Antigen [PSA], and low serum Calcium. A bone scan was performed which revealed widespread bony metastases in the axial and appendicular skeleton resulting in a 'superscan', consistent with prostatic metastases. We recommend that calcium levels be checked in all patients with prostate cancer and metastatic bone disease as this may have a bearing on their symptoms and the use of biphosphonate therapy

Diagnóstico laboratorial e monitoramento das doenças osteometabólicas: [revisão] / Laboratory diagnosis and follow-up in osteometabolic diseases: [review]

Poucas áreas de diagnóstico laboratorial apresentaram evolução recente mais acelerada do que os testes para o diagnóstico e monitoramento das doenças osteometabólicas. Novos conhecimentos sobre fisiopatologia, além de novidades nas modalidades terapêuticas e nos testes diagnósticos tornaram o campo na área de diagnósticos muito mais complexo, efetivo e interessante. O diagnóstico diferencial das hiper e hipocalcemias, assim como a definição e o seguimento da terapêutica para osteoporose são duas áreas onde progressos sensíveis puderam ser constatados. Por outro lado, o aproveitamento de todo esse potencial exige dos profissionais que atuam na área um conhecimento cada vez maior, de forma que o emprego dos novos testes seja feito com eficácia e coerência.

Few areas in the clinical laboratory field presented a more accelerated recent evolution than that of the tests for diagnosis and monitoring of osteometabolic diseases. Newer knowledge about physiopathology, newer therapeutic modalities and new diagnostic tests, turned this field much more complex, effective and interesting. The differential diagnosis of hyper and hypocalcemia and the definition and follow-up of osteoporosis therapeutics, are two of the areas where a more significant progress has been made. On the other side, the good use of all this potential asks the professionals working in this area an even deeper knowledge, so that the new tests are employed with efficacy and coherence.

Hypoparathyroidism and pseudohypoparathyroidism / Hipoparatiroidismo e pseudohipoparatiroidismo

The principal function of the parathyroid hormone (PTH) is maintenance of calcium plasmatic levels, withdrawing the calcium from bone tissue, reabsorbing it from the glomerular filtrate, and indirectly increasing its intestinal absorption by stimulating active vitamin D (calcitriol) production. Additionally, the PTH prompts an increase in urinary excretion of phosphorus and bicarbonate, seeking a larger quantity of free calcium available in circulation. Two mechanisms may alter its function, limiting its control on calcium: insufficient PTH production by the parathyroids (hypoparathyroidism), or a resistance against its action in target tissues (pseudohypoparathyroidism). In both cases, there are significantly reduced levels of plasmatic calcium associated with hyperphosphatemia. Clinical cases are characterized by nervous hyperexcitability, with paresthesia, cramps, tetany, hyperreflexia, convulsions, and tetanic crisis. Abnormalities such as cataracts and basal ganglia calcification are also typical of these diseases. Treatment consists of oral calcium supplementation associated with increased doses of vitamin D derivatives.

A principal função do paratormônio (PTH) é a manutenção dos níveis plasmáticos de cálcio, retirando-o do tecido ósseo, reabsorvendo-o do filtrado glomerular e, indiretamente, aumentando sua absorção intestinal através do estímulo para a produção de vitamina D ativa (calcitriol). Além disso, o PTH promove um aumento na excreção urinária de fósforo e bicarbonato, objetivando uma maior quantidade de cálcio livre disponível na circulação. Dois mecanismos podem alterar sua função, limitando seu controle sobre o cálcio: produção insuficiente de PTH pelas paratiróides (hipoparatiroidismo), ou uma resistência à sua ação nos órgãos-alvo (pseudohipoparatiroidismo). Em ambos os casos, ocorre uma redução significativa dos níveis plasmáticos de cálcio em associação com hiperfosfatemia. Manifestações clínicas características são: hiperexcitabilidade nervosa, com parestesia, cãimbras, tetania, hiperreflexia, convulsões e crise tetânica. Catarata e calcificação dos gânglios basais são anormalidades típicas dessas doenças. O tratamento consiste da suplementação oral de cálcio, associada com doses elevadas de derivados da vitamina D.

Distúrbio de cálcio e fósforo na infância / Calcium and phosphate disorders’s in childhood

Este artigo de revisão aborda aspectos gerais do metabolismo e da hemeostase do cálcio e do fósforo, bem como a fisiopatologia, as principais causas, as manifestações clínicas, os passos para o diagnóstico e o tratamento dos distúrbios do cálcio (hipocalcemia e hipercalcemia) e do fósforo ( hipofosfatemia e hiperfosfatemia) na infância e na adolscência.