TITLE:
Severe and Prolonged Hypocalcaemia Post Zoledronic Acid Infusion in a Patent with Sleeve Gastrectomy
AUTHORS:
Andrew Jeyaruban, Bruce Hall
KEYWORDS:
Hypocalcaemia, Zoledronic Acid, Bariatric Surgery
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Biosciences and Medicines,
Vol.10 No.9,
September
21,
2022
ABSTRACT: Background: Zoledronic acid is commonly used to treat hypercalcaemia and osteoporosis, as well as to prevent skeletal complications from haematological and solid organ malignancies. Case presentation: We report the case of a 38 year old lady who presented with severe hypocalcaemia following the administration of zoledronic acid. Her significant background history included vitamin D deficiency and sleeve gastrectomy three years ago. She had prolonged hypocalcaemia requiring IV calcium replacement for two months. Her prolonged hypocalcaemia was attributed to her vitamin D deficiency at the time of zoledronic acid infusion as well as her history of bariatric surgery. Conclusion: This case emphasises the importance of ensuring vitamin D levels are replete prior to zoledronic acid infusion and ensuring the calcium levels are checked frequently in patients with a history of bariatric surgery obtaining zoledronic acid.