Hypomagnesemic Seizures: Case Report and Presumed Pathophysiology

Hypomagnesemia has previously been recognized as an uncommon cause of seizures. The electrolyte abnormality is caused by poor gastrointestinal absorption or excessive renal wasting, both from a variety of causes. We report on a 5-week-old patient who developed hypomagnesemic seizures as a consequence of renal magnesium wasting. Although the exact pathophysiology of hypomagnesemic seizures remains uncertain, currently available information suggests that it is related to disinhibition of the N-methyl-D-aspartate-type glutamate receptor-sodium channel complex. (J Child Neurol 2002;17:59-61).