CVS Practice Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Tetany is a hallmark of hypocalcemia, which can occur due to a deficiency of parathyroid hormone (PTH) or conditions like sepsis. Hypocalcemia leads to increased neuromuscular excitability, manifesting as tetany. This condition is characterized by muscle cramps, spasms, or twitching, particularly in the hands and feet. The underlying mechanism involves a decrease in serum calcium levels, which affects the way nerves stimulate muscles.

For individuals experiencing hypocalcemia, the threshold for triggering action potentials in nerve and muscle cells is lowered, resulting in involuntary muscle contractions. These symptoms can be particularly pronounced when the serum calcium drops significantly, thus making tetany a critical sign to recognize in clinical situations like sepsis or PTH deficiency. Understanding this relationship is vital for recognizing and managing patients at risk for these conditions.