Article Text
Summary
We report a case of transient neonatal hypercalcaemia secondary to excess maternal vitamin D intake in pregnancy. Vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency in pregnancy are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, but there is no definite benefit to supplementation. The Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology recommends routine supplementation with vitamin D3 400 IU/day, but higher dose preparations usually recommended for the treatment of vitamin D deficiency are readily available over the counter. This case highlights the risks of excess supplementation, especially at higher doses and in women without evidence of vitamin D deficiency. The amount used in this case was at the upper end of the generally accepted safe dose range, but still less than that commonly recognised to cause problems. Neonatal hypercalcaemia is a potentially serious condition. The current local or national recommendations for vitamin D supplementation and the possible adverse effects of excess vitamin D consumption should be clearly communicated to pregnant women.
- Drugs: obstetrics and gynaecology
- Vitamins and supplements
- Obstetrics, gynaecology and fertility
- Materno-fetal medicine
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Footnotes
Contributors ED conceived the report and revised it critically. AR drafted the report. SMOC and LCK reviewed the report and revised it critically. All authors approved the final version and agree to be accountable for the article and to ensure that all questions regarding the accuracy or integrity of the article are investigated and resolved.
Competing interests None declared.
Patient consent Consent obtained from guardian.
Provenance and peer review Not commissioned; externally peer reviewed.