Subcutaneous fat necrosis causing neonatal hypercalcaemia

Abstract

Hypercalcaemia in neonates is rare and often asymptomatic, but can have significant morbidity. If severe, it can cause symptoms including irritability, vomiting and seizures. We present the case of a baby girl, born at term after a traumatic delivery, who developed severe hypercalcaemia with nephrocalcinosis. She had several large areas of subcutaneous fat necrosis following delivery, with prolonged low-level elevation of C reactive protein. Subcutaneous fat necrosis of the newborn is a rare and underdiagnosed condition, often accompanied by high plasma calcium. Although self-limiting, it is important to recognise and treat this condition to minimise kidney damage, and to avoid unnecessary investigations or treatment with long courses of antibiotics. The infant recovered well, although a degree of nephrocalcinosis remains.

Figure 1

Chart showing adjusted calcium levels in this patient, with age.