What is a potential risk for a neonate with DiGeorge Syndrome?

DiGeorge Syndrome is a genetic disorder resulting from a deletion on chromosome 22, leading to various developmental issues, particularly pertaining to the thymus and parathyroid glands. One of the hallmark features of this syndrome is hypoparathyroidism, which results in low levels of parathyroid hormone. Since parathyroid hormone plays a crucial role in regulating calcium levels in the blood, neonates with DiGeorge Syndrome are at significant risk for hypocalcemia, which can lead to tetany—characterized by muscle cramps, spasms, and even seizures due to increased neuromuscular excitability.

Considering the other options, anemia is not a direct consequence of DiGeorge Syndrome; while it may occur in neonates for various reasons, it is not specifically tied to this genetic condition. Diabetes is also not associated with DiGeorge Syndrome as a primary risk factor, and obesity is not typically a relevant issue in neonates with this disorder. Thus, tetany emerges as a prominent risk, directly linked to the underlying pathophysiology of DiGeorge Syndrome.