Which electrolyte disturbance is associated with tetany and seizures?

Hypocalcemia is the electrolyte disturbance that is primarily associated with tetany and seizures. This condition occurs when there is an abnormally low level of calcium in the blood, which is crucial for normal neuromuscular function. Calcium plays a vital role in muscle contraction and neuronal excitability. When calcium levels drop, it can lead to increased neuromuscular excitability, manifesting as symptoms such as muscle cramps, spasms, tetany, and potentially seizures.

While the other electrolyte disturbances can indeed cause other types of symptoms, they are not directly linked to the specific symptoms of tetany and seizures in the same way that hypocalcemia is. For instance, hyperkalemia can affect cardiac function significantly and may lead to arrhythmias, but it is not directly associated with neuromuscular excitability in the same manner as low calcium levels. Hypernatremia typically leads to neurological disturbances more often, while hypomagnesemia can contribute to seizures but is less frequently the primary cause compared to hypocalcemia. Therefore, the association of tetany and seizures with hypocalcemia makes it the correct choice.