Hypocalcaemia Flashcards
1
Q
Causes of hypocalcaemia
A
- Vit D deficiency (osteomalacia)
- CKD
- hypoparathyroidism (e.g. post thyroid/parathyroid surgery)
- pseudohypoparathyroidism (target cells insensitive to PTH)
- Rhabdomyolysis (initial stages)
- Mg2+ deficiency
- Massive blood transfusion
- Acute pancreatitis
2
Q
Initial management of Hypocalcaemia
A
severe hypocalcaemia
- IV calcium gluconate
- 10ml of 10% solution over 10 minutes
- +ECG monitoring
3
Q
Clinical features of hypocalcaemia
A
- Tetany => muscle twitching, cramping and spasm
- perioral paraesthesia
Chronic:
- depression
- cataracts
4
Q
What ECG change may be present in hypocalcaemia
A
prolonged QT interval
5
Q
What is Trosseau’s sign?
A
- inflate BP cuff to above systolic pressure
- brachial artery then occluded
- carpal spasm occurs
=> wrist flexion and fingers are drawn together
6
Q
Describe Chvostek’s sign
A
- Tapping over parotid causes facial muscles to twitch
