The most important complication of subcutaneous fat necrosis of the newborn is high calcium levels (hypercalcemia). This may develop either during the acute phases of the condition or delayed for up to months later. Hypercalcemia may be completely asymptomatic or be associated with fevers, irritability, vomiting, seizures, increased urination, vomiting, kidney problems and even death if severe.
Other problems that rarely may occur include:
- Low platelet levels (thrombocytopenia)
- High fat levels (hypertriglyceridemia)
- Low haemoglobin levels (anaemia)