Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome Treatment & Management

Updated: Dec 05, 2016
  • Author: Sunil Kumar Sinha, MD; Chief Editor: Robert P Hoffman, MD  more...
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Treatment

Medical Care

Patients with Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome (BWS) may require frequent feedings or diazoxide to treat their hypoglycemia.

  • Octreotide or glucagon by subcutaneous infusion or injection is seldom necessary. [10]
  • The goal of therapy is maintenance of plasma glucose levels above 60 mg/dL at all times.
  • Infants and children must demonstrate the ability to maintain euglycemia during a fast of age-appropriate duration. The normal duration of fasting for an infant or child depends on body mass and the maturity of counterregulatory responses to hypoglycemia, which include gluconeogenesis, glycogenolysis, and ketogenesis.
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Surgical Care

Embryonal tumors require appropriate oncologic treatment modalities, which often includes nephrectomy.

Nephron-sparing partial nephrectomy is feasible if embryonal renal tumors are detected early, highlighting the need for frequent ultrasonographic screening.

Macroglossia seldom requires resection to attain an independent airway. Macroglossia has been surgically reduced, with variable cosmetic outcomes. [11, 12]

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Consultations

The following consultations may be indicated:

  • Pediatric oncologist
  • Pediatric surgeon
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Diet

Patients with Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome may require frequent feedings in addition to medical therapy to maintain euglycemia, but their diet does not need to be restricted.

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Activity

Patients with Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome do not require activity restrictions.

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