Society for Endocrinology guidelines for the diagnosis and management of post-bariatric hypoglycaemia.

Abstract

Post bariatric hypoglycaemia (PBH) is typically a post-prandial hypoglycaemia occurring about 2-4 hours after eating in people who have undergone bariatric surgery. PBH develops relatively late after surgery and often after discharge from post-surgical follow-up by bariatric teams, leading to variability in diagnosis and management in non-specialist centres.

Aim: to improve and standardise clinical practice in the diagnosis and management of PBH.

Objectives: (1) to undertake an up-to-date review of the current literature; (2) to formulate practical and evidence-based guidance with regards on the diagnosis and treatment of PBH; (3) to recommend future avenues for research in this condition.

Method: A scoping review was undertaken after an extensive literature search. A consensus on the guidance and confidence in the recommendations was reached by the steering group authors prior to review by key stakeholders.

Outcome: We make pragmatic recommendations for the practical diagnosis and management of PBH including criteria for diagnosis and recognition, as well as recommendations for research areas that should be explored.