Hypoglycemia in Children: Major Endocrine-Metabolic Causes and Novel Therapeutic Perspectives

Hypoglycemia is due to defects in the metabolic systems involved in the transition from the fed to the fasting state or in the hormone control of these systems. In children, hypoglycemia is considered a metabolic-endocrine emergency, because it may lead to brain injury, permanent neurological sequelae and, in rare cases, death. Symptoms are nonspecific, particularly in infants and young children. Diagnosis is based on laboratory investigations during a hypoglycemic event, but it may also require biochemical tests between episodes, dynamic endocrine tests and molecular genetics. This narrative review presents the age-related definitions of hypoglycemia, its pathophysiology and main causes, and discusses the current diagnostic and modern therapeutic approaches.

Automated summary

Hypoglycemia is a metabolic condition that occurs due to defects in the metabolic systems or hormone control involved in the transition from the fed to the fasting state. In children, it is considered an emergency as it can lead to brain injury, permanent neurological damage, and even death. Diagnosis involves laboratory investigations during a hypoglycemic event, as well as biochemical tests between episodes, dynamic endocrine tests, and molecular genetics.