Clinical Profile and Outcomes of Patients With Hypercalcemia in an Indian Tertiary Care Center.

Hypercalcemia is a complex medical condition characterized by elevated levels of serum calcium (>10.5 mg/dL) in the bloodstream, often arising from various underlying etiologies. This condition presents a significant clinical challenge due to its diverse clinical manifestations and potential for serious complications. Profiling and understanding hypercalcemia is essential for accurate diagnosis, appropriate management, and improved patient outcomes. In this study, we delve into the comprehensive profiling of hypercalcemia, encompassing its epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and diagnostic approaches. We explore the multifaceted etiological factors contributing to hypercalcemia, including primary hyperparathyroidism, malignancies, granulomatous disorders, medications, and more. We highlight the intricate interplay between parathyroid hormone, vitamin D, and other regulatory mechanisms that influence calcium homeostasis, shedding light on the underlying molecular pathways. Furthermore, we discuss the diverse clinical manifestations of hypercalcemia, ranging from asymptomatic cases to severe, life-threatening complications involving the renal, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and neuromuscular systems. Accurate diagnosis is pivotal, and we evaluate the array of laboratory tests, imaging modalities, and specialized assays that aid in identifying the root cause of hypercalcemia. We emphasize the importance of a systematic approach to differential diagnosis and the significance of risk stratification to guide clinical decision-making. The evolving landscape of treatment options for hypercalcemia is also explored, encompassing both acute management and long-term strategies tailored to the underlying etiology. We assess the role of hydration, pharmacological agents, and surgical interventions, underscoring the need for individualized therapeutic plans based on the severity and underlying cause of hypercalcemia. In conclusion, the profiling of hypercalcemia is a multidimensional endeavor that necessitates a comprehensive understanding of its underlying mechanisms, diverse clinical presentations, and diagnostic intricacies. This study intends to serve as a valuable resource for healthcare professionals, offering insights into the complex terrain of hypercalcemia.

A Case of Insulin Autoimmune Syndrome in an Indian Male Taking Alpha-Lipoic Acid.

Insulin autoimmune syndrome [IAS, Hirata disease (HD)] is a rare cause of recurrent spontaneous hypoglycemic episodes, characterized by high serum insulin levels and high titers of autoantibodies against endogenous insulin. We report a case of a previously healthy Indian male presenting with recurrent episodes of hypoglycemia with no prior exposure to exogenous insulin. Regular glucose monitoring was done. Laboratory tests showed insulin >1000 µIU/mL and C-peptide levels of 12.8 ng/ml. The patient had high titers of insulin autoantibodies (IAA) (>100 units/mL; normal range: <10 units/mL), which indicated a diagnosis of IAS. The patient was consuming alpha-lipoic acid; sulfhydryl-containing compounds have been linked to IAS. This case report highlights the importance of IAA titers in first-line investigations for hypoglycemia in a non-diabetic patient with strikingly high blood insulin levels and discusses the potential relationship between IAS and alpha-lipoic acid.