Hypoglycemia in the neonate is a common issue in infants born at all gestational ages. A new report published in the Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism examines the common characteristics of infants admitted to neonatal units for hypoglycemia to give medical professionals a set of guidelines or common factors in infants affected by the condition.
Electronic medical charts were used for data collection in the study. Researchers found 95 infants admitted for hypoglycemia. All infants had complete electronic medical records on file. Of the 95 infants, 58% were males, 22% were premature and 18% were macrosomic. Mothers suffered from diabetes in 27% of the reviewed cases. Researchers found more than one morbidity in about 66% of infants. Infection and jaundice were the most common morbidities. Doctors also noted morbidities involving the respiratory system, temperature regulation, and feeding.
Infants admitted to neonatal units for hypoglycemia are commonly affected by multiple morbidities (co-occurring diseases), something admitting and primary physicians should be aware of. Multiple morbidities can affect and prolong hospital stay.
Source: Van Haltren K, Malhotra A. Characteristics of infants admitted with hypoglycemia to a neonatal unit. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab. 2013 Feb 27:1-5. DOI: 10.1515/jpem-2013-0009.
