Reversible congestive heart failure associated with hypocalcemia: A case report

BACKGROUND Hypoparathyroidism is a rare disease that may occur due to primary or secondary etiologies. The estimated incidence in the United States is 24-37/100000 personyears. Congestive heart failure associated with hypocalcemia due to hvpoparathyroidism is an even rarer presentation. CASE SUMMARY Here, we present a 64 -year -old woman with congestive heart failure following hypocalcemia. The patient was transferred to our emergency department with complaints of rapidly progressive dyspnea, shortness of breath and heaviness of the chest for 4 d. She had a history of undergoing thyroidectomy and partial tracheotomy 2 years prior due to a malignant thyroid tumor. Muscle spasms had been present 1 year ago, and cataracts were treated with intraocular lens replacement in both eves. Most tests were within normal ranges, except serum calcium at 1.33 mmol/L (2.20-2.65 mmol/ L), ionized calcium at 0.69 mmol/ L (1.15-1.29 mmol/L), and parathyroid hormone at < 1.0 pg/mL (12-88 pg/mL). Echocardiography revealed an ejection fraction of 28.48%. Cardiac function was quickly reversed by restoring the serum calcium concentration. Significant improvements were noted with an ejection fraction of up to 48.50% at follow-up. CONCLUSION For patients with potential hypocalcemia, monitoring calcium levels and dealing with hypocalcemia in time to avoid serious complications are important.