Does Lactation Predispose to Severe Hypocalcemia Post Total Thyroidectomy? A Case Series.

Abstract

Lactation as a risk factor for post-thyroidectomy hypocalcemia is not well recognised. In this series, we describe three lactating women with severe hypocalcemia, post thyroidectomy, who required intravenous calcium infusion in addition to oral calcium and calcitriol. The occurrence of severe post-op hypocalcemia in lactating women in our cohort suggests that lactation may be an unrecognised risk factor for severe post-operative hypocalcemia following thyroidectomy. Lactating mothers who undergo thyroidectomy may need aggressive treatment for hypoparathyroidism if it occurs. Also, screening and correction for pre-existing risk factors like hypomagnesemia and vitamin D deficiency may be beneficial.