Abstract

Background: Neonatal convulsion is a paroxysmal alteration in neurologic function, i.e. behavioral, motor, autonomic functions, either one or all three, occurring within 28 days in age. It is a common neurological disorder in neonates. Behind this convulsion metabolic derangement is one of the common reasons. Among metabolic abnormalities, hypocalcaemia is most common followed by hypoglycemia and hypomagnesaemia. 

Objectives: The present study was carried out to assess serum calcium status of neonates with convulsion, where no obvious cause of convulsion was found.

Methodology: This study was carried out in neonatal care unit of Shishu (child) hospital, Jessore, from September 2018 to February 2019. A total number of 70 babies were studied with or without convulsion but had no history of fever, septicemia, meningitis, perinatal asphyxia, birth injury, CNS abnormalities. After a quick clinical evaluation and control of convulsion and before giving any specific treatment, serum calcium status was measured by colorimetric determination (O-CRE-SOL Phahalein complex) method. Neonatal hypocalcaemia is considered if serum calcium value less than 1.75 mmol/l (7mg/dl).

Results: Among a total seventy patients 31.43% had low calcium level i.e, less than 1.75 mmol/l (7mg/dl).

Conclusion: It is seen that hypocalcaemia is an important cause of neonatal convulsion due to primary metabolic abnormalities. So, early recognition & treatment could save these babies from long term neurological sequel.

Keyword: Neonate, Convulsion, Hypocalcaemia.