Denosumab-induced hypocalcaemia in metastatic gastric cancer.
Craig GouldthorpeRichard QuintonDonna WakefieldPublished in: BMJ supportive & palliative care (2020)
Hypocalcaemia in malignancy is infrequently reported and the underlying cause is often multifactorial. Denosumab, an antiresorptive medication, can be used to treat a number of cancer-related complications including hypercalcaemia, metastatic bone pain and to reduce fracture-events. We present a case of a hospice inpatient with profound and recurring hypocalcaemia following a single denosumab infusion which required repeated hospitalisation, for intravenous calcium, alongside a prolonged course of vitamin D and electrolyte replacement. The case highlights the risk of hypocalcaemia with denosumab use, together with the need to identify and treat vitamin D deficiency in both the prevention and management of such a complication.
Keyphrases
- bone mineral density
- giant cell
- postmenopausal women
- body composition
- small cell lung cancer
- squamous cell carcinoma
- palliative care
- chronic pain
- healthcare
- high dose
- high glucose
- diabetic rats
- low dose
- risk factors
- neuropathic pain
- mental health
- ionic liquid
- emergency department
- pain management
- oxidative stress
- drug induced
- intellectual disability
- autism spectrum disorder
- bone loss