Nutritional hypophosphatemic rickets secondary to Neocate® use

Osteoporos Int. 2019 Sep;30(9):1887-1891. doi: 10.1007/s00198-019-04836-8. Epub 2019 May 29.

Abstract

Elemental formula is commonly used in children with feeding intolerance. We describe two, medically complex and feeding tube dependent, patients exclusively fed with Neocate® who subsequently developed hypophosphatemic rickets. Both patients had gross motor decline and pain with physical touch. They were found to have low serum phosphorus, normal calcium, and vitamin D studies, with elevated alkaline phosphatase suggestive of nutritional hypophosphatemia. Both courses were complicated by hypocalcemia following formula change and phosphorus supplementation, highlighting the need for careful management of phosphate repletion in affected individuals. Diligent serial electrolyte monitoring as well as attention to bone health is needed in conjunction with elemental nutrition. Formula change led to restoration of calcium and phosphorus homeostasis and radiographic improvement in these patients.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Amino Acids / adverse effects*
  • Carbohydrates / adverse effects*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Dietary Fats / adverse effects*
  • Food, Formulated / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Radiography
  • Rickets, Hypophosphatemic / diagnostic imaging
  • Rickets, Hypophosphatemic / etiology*

Substances

  • Amino Acids
  • Carbohydrates
  • Dietary Fats
  • Neocate