Hypercalcaemia in an immobilised patient with pneumonia.

Hypercalcaemia is a serious complication of sepsis and prolonged immobility. Hormonal, humoral and mechanical factors play a complex role in its development. Because hypercalcaemia is associated with a significant increase in morbidity and mortality, early treatment is recommended. Pamidronate is an effective pharmacological agent and should be considered as primary therapy for this syndrome.