Hypomagnesemia and Hypocalcemia Association Following Thyroidectomy

Magnesium plays a role in the active transport of calcium (Ca+2) and potassium ions across cell membranes. Most of it is intracellular or in the bone , however less than 1% of magnesium is in the blood serum. Hypoparathyroidism post thyroidectomy leads to acute Hypocalcemia that leads to hypomagnesemia. The relation of Ca+2 and magnesium (Mg+2) metabolism is complex and mainly related to the interaction of these cations with parathyroid post thyroidectomy. (Mg+2) is an essential regulator of Ca+2 flux and intracellular action of Ca+2. Hypomagnesaemia impairs hypocalcaemia induced PTH release, which is corrected rapidly after magnesium replacement. Attempting to correct only hypocalcemia may prolong symptoms. It is important to monitor both Ca+2 & Mg+2 levels following thyroidectomy to facilitate prompt resolution of symptoms.

Aim of the study: is to highlight the prevalence of hypomagnesemia following thyroidectomy and its association with hypocalcemia which mandate early recognition and treatment to prevent prolongation of hypocalcemia and permanent hypoparathyroidism

Methods:

IRB obtained (E20-4615) informed consent taken from all patient. This is prospective open Label observational study in patients underwent thyroidectomy .the study period was from January 2019 to January 2020. Total of 74 patients with normal renal function. Corrected serum Ca+2, magnesium, phosphate level and vitamin D level are all checked pre operatively and in the first post-operative day.

Result:

Post thyroidectomy 56.8% of patients had hypomagnesemia. 59.5.1% patients had hypocalcemia and 41.9% of patients had low both Ca+2 and Mg+2 (P=0.004)

Conclusion:

Hypocalcemia and hypomagnesemia following thyroidectomy is of multi factorial related mainly to Ca+2, Mg+2 interaction.

Keywords: Hypomagnesemia. Hypocalcemia. Thyroidectomy