Tetany

A clinical syndrome of increased neuromuscular excitability characterized by painful, usually symmetric tonic muscle spasms, cramps, and muscle rigidity due to disturbances in mineral balance or acid–base status.

Causes

• Electrolyte abnormalities

  • Hypocalcemia: Medications, blood transfusion, hyperventilation, kidney failure

  • Hypomagnesemia

  • Hypokalemia

• Endocrine causes

  • Hypoparathyroidism

  • Vitamin D deficiency

  • Pseudohypoparathyroidism

• Alkalosis (especially respiratory alkalosis causing reduced ionized calcium)