Trullemans B, Bottu J, Van Nieuwenhuyse J-P
Clinique pédiatrique, centre hospitalier de Luxembourg, 4, rue Barblé, 1210 Luxembourg.
Arch Pediatr. 2007 Feb;14(2):170-2. doi: 10.1016/j.arcped.2006.10.015. Epub 2006 Nov 29.
Subcutaneus fat necrosis is an uncommon disease which may be complicated with potentially fatal hypercalcemia. The usual treatment of hypercalcemia includes hyperhydratation, corticosteroids and diet. This treatment is not always effective in normalizing plasma calcium concentration. A treatment with bisphosphonates has been effective in similar cases. We report on the case of a patient presenting with symptomatic hypercalcemia, complicated with nephrocalcinosis consecutive to subcutaneus fat necrosis after birth asphyxia at term. Oral etidronate has been used for 3 weeks, after failure of classical treatment. The evolution was favorable. After a short review of the complications of subcutaneus fat necrosis, we discuss the use of bisphophonates in this indication.