MAGNESIUM DEPLETION IN MAN

Abstract

Studies in 12 malnourished patients suddenly developing severe psychiatric and neuromuscular symptoms have revealed evidence suggesting a relationship between these symptoms and a depletion of the total body Mg. Nine patients demonstrated significant depressions of the serum Mg concentration and all demonstrated low serum Ca values. Clinical improvement followed the administration of Mg and in several instances abnormal eegs and ecgs improved following therapy. Such therapy usually resulted in a markedly positive Mg balance, and on occasion was associated with significant increases in the serum Ca concentration and in the renal excretion of Ca. Considerable evidence suggests that an intracellular depletion of Mg is of primary significance in the production of symptoms in states of Mg depletion.