NESIDIOBLASTOSIS - A CASE-STUDY

Hypoglycemia is a frequent problem in the neonatal period requiring cl ose attention and intervention. Severe, persistent hypoglycemia can ha ve various etiologies; one of the most common causes is hyperinsulinis m. Nesidioblastosis, although rare, is the most common cause of hyperi nsulinism in the neonate. If not detected early, nesidioblastosis can lead to brain damage and death secondary to severe hypoglycemia. The e tiology of nesidioblastosis remains unclear. Treatment involves mainta ining normal blood glucose levels; treatment modalities include high g lucose infusion rates, use of medications, and surgical intervention. The article reviews the pathophysiology and treatment modalities for n esidioblastosis. A case study is also presented that describes the cli nical presentation, treatment, surgical intervention, and postdischarg e clinical course of an infant with nesidioblastosis.