Chronic symptomatic hypocalcaemia – difficulties in diagnosis and treatment in rural Africa

Abstract

We describe a case of an African woman who had been misdiagnosed with peripheral neuropathy secondary to antiretroviral therapy. After clinical examination and laboratory investigation, an alternative diagnosis was made – chronic symptomatic hypocalcaemia secondary to hypoparathyroidism as a consequence of thyroid surgery approximately 30 years previously. We discuss the challenges faced by patients in areas with limited resources for the diagnosis and/or treatment of metabolic conditions such as this.