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Severe Hypocalcemia Leading to Trousseau's Sign

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Hypocalcemia is a common complication post-total thyroidectomy. This case report of a young woman with a rare finding on a physical examination highlights the need for patient education, routine laboratory work, and follow-up post-total thyroidectomy. Hypocalcemia is an electrolyte abnormality with numerous causes including chronic kidney disease, vitamin D deficiency, rhabdomyolysis, medications, and hyperventilation. In this report, we discuss the complications and management of hypocalcemia associated with total thyroidectomy. Significant complications include the lifelong need for T4, hypocalcemia, and recurrent and superior laryngeal nerve injuries. The study concludes with the importance of careful primary care follow-ups, medication adherence, and education in postoperative management.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.80401

Authors: Tanique A Burke, Cesar M Almanza, Logan C Hager, Damian Casadesus

Institutions: Jackson Memorial Hospital, American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine

Language: English

Topic: Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4408333171

FWCI:

Cites: 9

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Related to: 10