Which of the following is a major neuromuscular symptom of hypocalcemia?

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following is a major neuromuscular symptom of hypocalcemia?

Explanation:
Low calcium makes nerves and muscles more excitable by destabilizing their membranes; calcium normally helps dampen excitability, so when it’s low the threshold for depolarization drops and muscles can contract involuntarily. This leads to tetany, with carpopedal spasm being the classic and most recognizable neuromuscular sign. It reflects peripheral nerve and muscle hyperexcitability caused by hypocalcemia. In more severe cases, seizures can occur, and cardiac effects like bradycardia from QT prolongation may appear, but the hallmark neuromuscular manifestation is the carpopedal spasm.

Low calcium makes nerves and muscles more excitable by destabilizing their membranes; calcium normally helps dampen excitability, so when it’s low the threshold for depolarization drops and muscles can contract involuntarily. This leads to tetany, with carpopedal spasm being the classic and most recognizable neuromuscular sign. It reflects peripheral nerve and muscle hyperexcitability caused by hypocalcemia. In more severe cases, seizures can occur, and cardiac effects like bradycardia from QT prolongation may appear, but the hallmark neuromuscular manifestation is the carpopedal spasm.

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