Approximately 3 weeks ago, Debbie brought Cricket in for examination because Cricket began acting strange staggering occasionally, acting disoriented, and even having small seizures. Debbie described that Cricket's hind legs would "cramp up" during the night.

Physical examination indicated that Cricket had some joint abnormalities in her knees that could cause cramping, but all other findings were normal.

Blood tests were taken to screen Cricket for problems internally (metabolic problems) that could lead to seizuring, with special concerns about kidney function given her previous history of Lyme Disease.

Blood testing revealed the answer to Cricket's disorder. She had a critically low blood calcium level, indicating that her body was unable to maintain internal calcium levels. Calcium is a critical electrolyte within the body that is involved in muscle function. Cricket's low levels explained why she was having muscle tremors and seizures. Testing also showed that she had a below normal level of parathyroid hormone (PTH).

Cricket"s final diagnosis is HYPOPARATHYROIDISM, a disorder of the parathyroid gland, which is the gland that regulates the body's calcium and phosphorous balance.

Treatment for this condition involves oral supplementation of calcium (TUMS!) and Vitamin D. Cricket responded very quickly to treatment and is doing GREAT! Her follow up blood tests show she has normal calcium levels again. Cricket will need these medications for the rest of her life.