Tetany

Definition

Tetany is a neuromuscular disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions and spasms, often caused by a deficiency or imbalance of certain electrolytes, particularly calcium. This condition is closely linked to the regulation of calcium homeostasis, the function of the parathyroid glands, and acid-base balance in the body.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tetany is often triggered by a sudden drop in the level of ionized calcium in the blood, which can cause increased neuromuscular excitability and involuntary muscle contractions.
2. The parathyroid glands secrete parathyroid hormone (PTH) to help regulate calcium levels and prevent the development of tetany.
3. Disorders affecting the parathyroid glands, such as hyperparathyroidism or hypoparathyroidism, can lead to imbalances in calcium homeostasis and the onset of tetany.
4. Acid-base imbalances, particularly respiratory alkalosis or metabolic acidosis, can also contribute to the development of tetany by altering the availability of ionized calcium.
5. Symptoms of tetany include muscle spasms, cramps, tingling or numbness in the extremities, and, in severe cases, seizures and respiratory distress.

Review Questions

• Explain the role of calcium homeostasis in the development of tetany.
  • Tetany is closely linked to calcium homeostasis, as it is typically triggered by a sudden drop in the level of ionized calcium in the blood. This can occur due to a variety of factors, such as parathyroid gland dysfunction, dietary calcium deficiency, or disruptions in the body's ability to regulate calcium levels. The resulting hypocalcemia leads to increased neuromuscular excitability and the characteristic involuntary muscle contractions and spasms associated with tetany.
• Describe the relationship between the parathyroid glands and the occurrence of tetany.
  • The parathyroid glands play a crucial role in maintaining calcium homeostasis and preventing the development of tetany. Parathyroid hormone (PTH) secreted by these glands helps regulate calcium levels in the blood by promoting the release of calcium from the bones, increasing calcium absorption in the intestines, and reducing calcium excretion by the kidneys. Disorders affecting the parathyroid glands, such as hyperparathyroidism or hypoparathyroidism, can disrupt this delicate balance and lead to imbalances in calcium homeostasis, ultimately contributing to the onset of tetany.
• Analyze how acid-base imbalances can influence the occurrence of tetany.
  • Acid-base balance is another critical factor in the development of tetany. Disturbances in the body's pH, such as respiratory alkalosis or metabolic acidosis, can alter the availability of ionized calcium and contribute to the onset of tetany. In respiratory alkalosis, the increased pH can reduce the ionization of calcium, leading to a decrease in the concentration of free calcium ions and the subsequent development of tetany. Conversely, metabolic acidosis can also trigger tetany by interfering with the body's ability to maintain optimal calcium homeostasis. Therefore, the careful monitoring and management of acid-base balance is essential in the prevention and treatment of tetany.

Related terms

Hypocalcemia: A condition in which the level of calcium in the blood is abnormally low, leading to the development of tetany.

Parathyroid Hormone (PTH): A hormone secreted by the parathyroid glands that plays a crucial role in maintaining calcium homeostasis and preventing the onset of tetany.

Acid-Base Balance: The delicate equilibrium between the levels of acids and bases in the body, which can influence the occurrence of tetany when disrupted.