Seizures as initial manifestation of vitamin D-deficiency rickets in a 5-month-old exclusively breastfed infant

Pediatr Neonatol. 2012 Dec;53(6):384-6. doi: 10.1016/j.pedneo.2012.08.004. Epub 2012 Sep 10.

Abstract

Despite the fact that sunlight-dependent skin synthesis is the major mechanism for vitamin D synthesis in vivo, vitamin D-deficiency rickets continues to occur in exclusively breastfed infants in Greece. We present such a case in a 5-month-old infant who presented with afebrile seizures and whose mother was underexposed to sunlight due to veiling for religious reasons. Additionally, we briefly but thoroughly review the relevant medical literature. A high index of suspicion is required for nutritional rickets, when seizures occur in exclusively breastfed infants whose mothers have inadequate exposure to sunlight.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Breast Feeding*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Rickets / complications*
  • Seizures / etiology*
  • Sunlight
  • Vitamin D / analogs & derivatives
  • Vitamin D / blood

Substances

  • Vitamin D
  • 25-hydroxyvitamin D