The Problem of Childhood Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia in infants and children is common and is caused by a number of sources. Childhood hypoglycemia has the potential to cause brain damage leading to lifelong neurodisability. However, definitions and clinical management of hypoglycemia remain variable, given uncertainty over thresholds of harm and absence of robust clinical evidence for appropriate treatment. It is important to synthesize our current understanding of the etiology of mild and severe forms of hypoglycemia to formulate treatment strategies that are effective and cause minimal harm.

The investigation and treatment of hypoglycemia in young infants and children remains variable due to an absence of evidence and uniform consensus among pediatricians and neonatologists. This Research Topic aims to align basic science understanding of the biology of glucose regulation, provide rational understanding of thresholds of hypoglycemia, and develop rational therapy strategies in severe disorders of hypoglycemia such as congenital hyperinsulinism.

We welcome researchers to submit original research, reviews, and mini reviews that,

• Collate current evidence supporting the understanding of pathways of hypoglycemia
• Discuss etiologies of hypoglycemia disorders and assess evidence for different strategies of treatment for optimal outcomes
• Review thresholds of neonatal hypoglycemia to prevent hypoglycemia related brain injury while reducing harm from over-treatment
• Review the patient voice in hypoglycemia and pursue perspectives of patient charities and organizations aiming to push boundaries of care through improved diagnostics and treatment
• Review limits and possibilities of current and future investigations in hypoglycemia
• Describe new treatments to improve patient outcomes

*Dr. Banerjee works at the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, the clinical trial site for Zealand Pharma, and is the Primary Investigator for a Growth Hormone study supported by Merck.