Subcutaneous fat necrosis in an infant with hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy stage 3: an uncommon association

Abstract

Subcutaneous fat necrosis (SCFN) is inflammation and necrosis of adipose tissue associated with hypoxia and hypothermia. It leads to various metabolic abnormalities, of which the most dreaded is hypercalcaemia. We report a case of a 7-week-old boy with history of birth asphyxia (hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy stage 3) who presented to us with features suggestive of hypercalcaemia with bilateral nephrocalcinosis. On examination, there were multiple subcutaneous nodules on both arms. Evaluation revealed suppressed parathyroid activity along with low levels of 25(OH)vitamin D3 and elevated 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. Skin biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of SCFN. He was managed with intravenous fluids, single dose of intravenous furosemide and oral prednisolone. Hypercalcaemia responded within 14 days of admission, prednisolone was tapered and stopped in a month. SCFN, in our case, can be attributed to the underlying perinatal asphyxia along with use of therapeutic hypothermia. Through this case, we wish to sensitise practicing neonatologists for the need of screening and early identification of these abnormalities, which if missed can be fatal.