A severely underweight patient with anorexia nervosa is admitted for nutritional rehabilitation. Which electrolyte disturbance is the hallmark of refeeding syndrome?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Hypophosphataemia, with low potassium and magnesium
- Step 1: Refeeding after chronic starvation drives insulin release and shifts electrolytes into cells. Step 2. Phosphate falls most prominently, with potassium and magnesium, and thiamine is given. Levels are checked before and during feeding. Answer: Hypophosphataemia, with low potassium and magnesium. Why not the others: The shifts are in the opposite direction to the options of high potassium, high phosphate or high calcium.
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