Severe symptomatic hypomagnesaemia

Magnesium is an essential mineral for the human body and plays an important role in a variety of enzymatic processes. Disturbance of the plasma magnesium concentration can cause a range of cerebral, cardiac and muscular symptoms. We describe the case of a 69-year-old woman who presented to the Emergency Department because of a range of signs and symptoms, including confusion and disorientation. Laboratory examination revealed major electrolyte disturbances, in particular severe hypomagnesaemia. In this case report we elaborate on the causes and consequences of hypomagnesaemia.