A Case of Hypocalcaemia Due to Vitamin D Deficiency in ‘Hikikomori’ Syndrome

Abstract

Objective To describe hypocalcaemia due to vitamin D deficiency in ‘hikikomori’ syndrome. Materials and methods A 37-year-old man with ‘hikikomori’ syndrome for a year was admitted with hypocalcaemia (serum ionic calcium 1.17 mmol/l). Serum 1,25(OH) 2 -vitamin D 3 determined by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry was depressed at 12.1 pg/ml (29.0 pmol/l) and plasma intact PTH elevated at 324 ng/l. Administration of 1 μg/day 1α(OH)-vitamin D 3 and 1 g/day calcium lactate for 1 week normalized calcium and PTH, and raised 1,25(OH) 2 -vitamin D 3 to low normal levels. Conclusion This is the first report of hypocalcaemia due to vitamin D deficiency in a patient with ‘hikikomori’ syndrome. LEARNING POINTS A patient with psychiatric disorders can develop endocrine/metabolic abnormality. Hikikomori syndrome should be listed as a possible cause of hypocalcaemia in adults. Early diagnosis of hypocalcaemia in hikikomori syndrome prevents bone damage.

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