ABSTRACT

Glucose is normally the predominant fuel for mammalian cells. Because the brain cannot synthesize glucose, nor store more than a few minutes supply as glycogen, survival of the brain depends on a continuous supply of glucose (1). Recurrent hypoglycemia during the period of rapid brain growth and differentiation in infancy can result in long-term neurologic sequelae, psychomotor retardation, and seizures (2). Prevention of hypoglycemia and expeditious diagnosis and vigorous treatment is essential to prevent the potentially devastating cerebral consequences of hypoglycemia.