Diagnostic Criteria and Management of Hypoglycemia in Children
Sep 08, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Pan Yongyuan
Introduction
The diagnostic criterion for pediatric hypoglycemia is fasting blood glucose. For neonates, a blood glucose level below 2.2 mmol/L, and for older infants or children, a fasting blood glucose level below 2.8 mmol/L, is diagnosed as pediatric hypoglycemia. Management includes medications, surgery, and other interventions. Glucose injection is used to maintain glucose metabolic balance. Hydrocortisone injection promotes the conversion of proteins into glucose. In cases of severe liver damage, liver transplantation may be required.
The diagnostic criterion for pediatric hypoglycemia is based on fasting blood glucose levels. Management may include pharmacological treatment, surgical intervention, and other approaches.
1. Diagnostic Criteria
Hypoglycemia in newborns is defined as a blood glucose level below 2.2 mmol/L, while in older infants or children, it is diagnosed when the fasting blood glucose level falls below 2.8 mmol/L.
2. Management
(1) Pharmacological Treatment
Glucose injection is recommended under medical supervision to replenish energy and maintain glucose metabolic balance. Additionally, hydrocortisone injection may be used as prescribed to promote gluconeogenesis from proteins, reduce glucose utilization, increase hepatic glycogen stores, and elevate blood glucose levels.
(2) Surgical Treatment
For cases of hyperinsulinism within three months after birth, or when drug therapy proves ineffective, pancreatic exploration surgery may be required under medical guidance. If no adenoma is found during surgery, insulin therapy may be prescribed postoperatively to regulate blood glucose. If an adenoma is identified, localized resection of the tumor is recommended. In cases where severe liver damage causes hypoglycemia, liver transplantation may be necessary under medical supervision to restore normal intrahepatic glucose metabolism and alleviate symptoms.
