Neonatal hypocalcemia and its relation to vitamin D and calcium supplementation

Saudi Med J. 2018 Mar;39(3):247-253. doi: 10.15537/smj.2018.3.21679.

Abstract

To assess the prevalence of hypocalcemia in outpatient clinic neonates and its relation to vitamin D and calcium supplementation. Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted at the University Teaching Hospital from May to October 2016. Data were collected from 100 neonates by interviewing mothers using a structured questionnaire; which included socio-demographic information, maternal and neonatal history; in addition to investigations of serum calcium total and ionized and serum vitamin D level. Results: The prevalence of hypocalcemia was 76%, late hypocalcemia represent 52% of hypocalcemic neonates. The prevalence of hypovitaminosis D was 38%. Hypocalcemia was found more prevalent among neonates with no history of vitamin D supplementation (98.7%), no history of maternal calcium supplementation (57.9%), while they had a history of neonatal jaundice on phototherapy (46.1%) which increased to 53.8% with late hypocalcemia. Conclusion: Neonatal hypocalcemia is widely prevalent in Fayoum governorate with significant association with a history of neonatal jaundice on phototherapy, not receiving maternal calcium or neonatal vitamin D supplementation.

MeSH terms

  • Calcium, Dietary / administration & dosage*
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Egypt / epidemiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypocalcemia / epidemiology*
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Jaundice, Neonatal / epidemiology
  • Jaundice, Neonatal / therapy
  • Male
  • Prenatal Care*
  • Risk Factors
  • Time Factors
  • Vitamin D / administration & dosage*
  • Vitamin D Deficiency / epidemiology*

Substances

  • Calcium, Dietary
  • Vitamin D