Normocalcemic tetany and candidiasis.

We have observed a high frequency of chronic Candida albicans infection and of allergic sensitization to candida among patients with normocalcemic latent tetany (LT). Among 50 LT patients, 34% suffered from recurrent or chronic candida infection by history, 24% showed evidence of active infection and 48% demonstrated type I hypersensitivity to C. albicans extract on intradermal testing. Treatment with oral antifungal drugs and allergy desensitization to Candida produced complete relief of symptoms in 44% of the patients, with remission occurring for symptoms of depression, irritable bowel syndrome, fatigue, premenstrual tension, headache, anxiety and back pain. The complex relationship between candidiasis and Mg deficit is discussed. Patients with LT, refractory symptoms and a history of prolonged antibiotic exposure or recurrent candida infection should be considered for oral antifungal therapy and candida desensitization.