Glucose Dysregulation Associated with Hypoglycaemia in Childhood and Adolescence

Glucose is the most important energy substrate and the predominant fuel for brain function. Our body maintains normal blood glucose by complex hormonal and metabolic pathways that control glucose production and utilization. Hypoglycemia is a medical emergency and is one of most common biochemical findings in children. Hypoglycemia in children cannot be defined on the basis of a single blood glucose concentration. The present chapter focuses on glucose homeostasis and the main endocrine causes of hypoglycemia derived from alterations in the mechanisms that provide glucose stability. Special attention will be given to hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia and its management as it is the main cause of pediatric severe persistent hypoglycemia.