Praxis Medical Insights

Est. 2024 • Clinical Guidelines Distilled

Made possible by volunteer editors from the University of Calgary & University of Alberta

Last Updated: 9/29/2025

Hypocalcemia in Acute Pancreatitis

Primary Mechanisms and Contributing Factors

  • Hypocalcemia occurs in up to 25% of patients with severe acute pancreatitis, according to Clinical Nutrition guidelines 1
  • The systemic inflammatory response and release of proinflammatory cytokines contribute to metabolic derangements, as noted by Clinical Nutrition 1
  • Associated deficiencies of magnesium, zinc, folate, and thiamine may develop during hospitalization, as reported by Clinical Nutrition 1
  • Adequate fluid resuscitation and hemodynamic stabilization are essential before addressing electrolyte abnormalities, as recommended by Clinical Nutrition 1