EVIDENCES FOR CLINICAL MAGNESIUM DEFICIENCY

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Abstract
A syndrome characterized by muscle tremor, twitching and bizarre movements, often by delirium and occasionally convulsions is attributed to Mg deficiency in man and is similar to experimental Mg deficiency in animals. The neuromuscular disturbances are distinctly different from those of hypocalcemic tetany and alkalosis. Four case reports are given which emphasize (1) the variety of neuromuscular and central nervous system manifestations, (2) the correction of K depletion may unmask the signs and symptoms of Mg deficiency and (3) that Ca and NH3 accentuate these signs and symptoms. In three patients with neuromuscular disturbances and delirium, balance studies indicate a retention of 60-109 meq of Mg. Serum levels of 2.27 meq/l (mean) were obtained in normals, 1.58 meq/l in 29 patients with neuromuscular disturbances and delirium, and 1.88 meq/l in 21 patients with neuromuscular disturbances but without delirium. Parenteral administration of magnesium results in a gradual subsidence of manifestations of deficiency suggesting intracellular deficit or significant impairment of a metabolic process.