Hypoglycaemic Unawareness in a Glycogen Storage Disorder Patient: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

The concept of hypoglycaemic unawareness is often discussed in the literature in relation to diabetics on insulin treatment. Hypoglycaemic unawareness is a state in which patients fail to recognize neuroglycopenic symptoms and signs that could prompt the need to seek measures to reverse or treat low blood sugar readings. This can lead to serious dangers, as immediate action is vital to avert potentially life-threatening consequences. We present a finding of hypoglycaemic unawareness in a 27-year-old female with a long-term diagnosis of Von Gierke disease (a glycogen storage disorder (GSD)) who went on to be fitted with a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) device to prevent the harmful effects of unrecognised hypoglycaemia. We have reviewed the burden and probable mechanism for the development of hypoglycaemic unawareness in this disorder and in other infrequently reported disorders for the education of health professionals and patients.