Which sign is commonly associated with neonatal hypocalcemia?

Which sign is commonly associated with neonatal hypocalcemia?

• A. Jitteriness
• B. Tetany
• C. Lethargy
• D. Seizures

Answer: (B)

Low calcium in newborns increases neuromuscular excitability, leading to tetany. Calcium helps stabilize nerve and muscle membranes; when Ca2+ is low, the threshold for depolarization drops, causing spontaneous nerve firing and sustained muscle contractions. This makes tetany—the characteristic muscle cramps and carpopedal spasms—the sign most specifically linked to neonatal hypocalcemia. Other findings like jitteriness, lethargy, or seizures can occur but are less specific and may reflect other conditions or more severe hypocalcemia. Recognizing tetany early points to the need to check serum calcium (and magnesium) and initiate appropriate management to prevent complications.

Low calcium in newborns increases neuromuscular excitability, leading to tetany. Calcium helps stabilize nerve and muscle membranes; when Ca2+ is low, the threshold for depolarization drops, causing spontaneous nerve firing and sustained muscle contractions. This makes tetany—the characteristic muscle cramps and carpopedal spasms—the sign most specifically linked to neonatal hypocalcemia. Other findings like jitteriness, lethargy, or seizures can occur but are less specific and may reflect other conditions or more severe hypocalcemia. Recognizing tetany early points to the need to check serum calcium (and magnesium) and initiate appropriate management to prevent complications.