An Overview of Hypoglycemia in Children Including a Comprehensive Practical Diagnostic Flowchart for Clinical Use
Alberto Casertano, Alessandro Rossi, Simona Fecarotta, Francesco Maria Rosanio, Cristina Moracas, Francesca Di Candia, Giancarlo Parenti, Adriana Franzese, Enza Mozzillo
Abstract
Hypoglycemia is the result of defects/impairment in glucose homeostasis. The main etiological causes are metabolic and/or endocrine and/or other congenital disorders. Despite hypoglycemia is one of the most common emergencies in neonatal age and childhood, no consensus on the definition and diagnostic work-up exists yet. Aims of this review are to present the current age-related definitions of hypoglycemia in neonatal-pediatric age, to offer a concise and practical overview of its main causes and management and to discuss the current diagnostic-therapeutic approaches. Since a systematic and prompt approach to diagnosis and therapy is essential to prevent hypoglycemic brain injury and long-term neurological complications in children, a comprehensive diagnostic flowchart is also proposed.