Iatrogenic hypocalcemic tetany.

ABSTRACT

The treatment of a patient with hypocalcemic tetany secondary to sodium phosphate enemas is reported. The patient presented with a serum calcium level of 5.2 mg/dL and a phosphate level of 17.5 mg/dL. Physical manifestations included tetanic contraction of the muscles of the legs and arms. There was rapid symptomatic resolution with IV calcium. The electrolyte imbalance normalized over the next two days with oral calcium supplementation.