[Immobilisation hypercalcaemia (author's transl)]

Abstract

Hypercalcaemia would seem to be rare during immobilisation, whilst osteoporosis and hypercalciuria are constant. In fact, it often goes unnoticed. The case presented here confirms its predominance in the adolescent male. The reason for immobilisation seems to be irrelevant. The clinical symptoms are very variable: polydipsia, nausea, headache, apathy, anorexia. Blood calcium levels are raised, up to 14 mg%. This hypercalcaemia is due to very marked bone loss in adolescents, secondary to hyper-resorption and a temporary stoppage in osseous formation. The differential diagnosis from primary hyperparathyroidism is sometimes difficult but is aided by laboratory and histological findings. The essential is to consider the possibility of immobilisation hypercalcaemia in the presence of any suggestive symptoms in an immobilised adolescent. Treatment includes a return to weight bearing, adequate water intake and the administration of phosphorus, calcitonin, furosemide, and corticosteroids.