Hypocalcemia in Jaundiced Term Neonates Undergoing Phototherapy

Abstract

Objective: frequency of hypocalcemia in jaundiced term neonates undergoing phototherapy. Methodology: A total of 150 term neonates of either gender who develop jaundice requiring phototherapy are included in this study presenting within first week of life whereas those term jaundiced neonates who are at known risk of developing hypocalcemia, infant of diabetic mother, neonates having history of birth asphyxix, septic neonates, those requiring exchange transfusion and those with hemolytic anemias were excluded from study. The patients were examined thoroughly (complete history and physical examination).Informed consent was obtained to include the data in study. Jaundiced neonate is applied phototherapy and after 48 hrs of phototherapy session, 5ml blood sample is drawn and sent to hospital laboratory for estimation of total serum calcium level. Hypocalcemia (i.e. Calcium level < 8 mg/dl after 48 hours application of phototherapy for jaundice neonatorum) was recorded and managed as per hospital protocol. Results: Out of 150 cases, 46%(n=69) were in range of 1-3 days while 54%(n=81) were between the range of 4-7 days of life. The common age was 3.59+1.60 days. There were 53.33%(n=80) male while 46.67%(n=70) were female participants. Hypocalcemia was recorded in 20.67%(n=31). Conclusion: We concluded that the frequency of phototherapy associated hypocalcemia is not very high, however, calcium levels should be monitored as it is a potential but very less studied complication in our clinical settings. Keywords: Term neonates, jaundice, phototherapy, hypocalcemia