8216 When calcium makes you breathless, exploring hypocalcemia-induced bronchospasm

Abstract Disclosure: K.N. Pereira: None. V. Sundaram: None. H.S. Sreemantula: None. When calcium makes you breathless, exploring hypocalcemia-induced bronchospasm Hypocalcemia, characterized by low levels of serum calcium, is an uncommon yet potentially life-threatening condition with various clinical manifestations. This case report delves into an unusual manifestation of hypocalcemia-induced bronchospasm in a 54-year-old male with an extensive medical history, including chronic kidney disease, insulin-dependent type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, ascending aortic aneurysm and hyperthyroidism. Despite multiple interventions in the emergency department like nebulized bronchodilators and intravenous steroids, his 4 day misery of respiratory distress persisted. Physical exam was notable for tachypnea, audible wheezing, and accessory muscle use for respiration. Work up was negative for infectious and pulmonary causes including asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. However, his laboratory results unveiled severe hypocalcemia (calcium: 5.7 mg/dL), elevated creatinine (Cr: 5.90), and blood urea nitrogen (BUN: 64), profound vitamin D deficiency with a 25-OH vitamin D level below 7 and elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH- 375.7). He was ultimately diagnosed with hypocalcemia-induced bronchospasm as intravenous calcium gluconate administration led to gradual respiratory improvement. This case highlights the necessity of considering hypocalcemia-induced bronchospasm in respiratory distress differentials, even in patients with concurrent asthma or COPD histories. The rarity of this presentation, coupled with the patient's complex medical history, underscores diagnostic challenges, necessitating a high index of suspicion. Timely hypocalcemia assessment and calcium replenishment are vital in averting mortality linked to this unusual manifestation. Clinicians must exercise caution to prevent misinterpreting symptoms as asthma or COPD exacerbation, as this could lead to potentially fatal outcomes. Presentation: 6/1/2024