Calcinosis cutis following extravasation of calcium gluconate in neonates.
Neonatal hypocalcemia is not an uncommon condition, especially in the premature neonate. It is effectively treated by intravenous infusion with calcium gluconate. We treated nine neonates with subcutaneous calcium deposition following calcium replacement with calcium gluconate from Jan. 1997 to Dec. 1997. Three of the infants were born to diabetic mothers, two had perinatal asphyxia and four were born prematurity. The average dosing number was 7.4 (5 to 9 doses). The onset of calcinosis cutis was 5 to 11 days after the first dose. The replacement of calcium gluconate caused amorphous masses at the site of extravasation and contracture of joint movement. A radiographic study was performed to determine the extent and course of extravasation, and areas remote from the infusion site also showed calcification. There is no specific mode of treatment except supportive management and a skin graft. The patient could functionally recover with cosmetic residue. In our follow-up clinics, all infants completely recovered without functional limitations.
Department of Pediatrics, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
S C
SC
Mu
C H
CH
Lin
T C
TC
Sung
D002114:Calcinosis / Q000209:etiology*; D002125:Calcium Gluconate / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000209:etiology*
D002125:Calcium Gluconate