Work

Thyrotoxic Periodic Paralysis: A Rare Cause of Quadriparesis in a Young and Seemingly Healthy Patient

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Hypokalemia is a common laboratory finding in hospitalized patients, typically resulting from insufficient potassium intake, renal or gastrointestinal losses, or intracellular shifts. While the underlying cause is often easily identifiable, certain cases present diagnostic challenges, and if left unrecognized, the consequences can be life-threatening. We report a rare and atypical case of severe symptomatic hypokalemia as the initial presentation of newly diagnosed Graves' disease. The condition was caused by thyrotoxic periodic paralysis, a rare but serious complication of thyrotoxicosis, predominantly seen in East Asian populations. This disorder is characterized by episodes of acute, reversible muscle weakness associated with transient hypokalemia, which increases the risk of falls and traumatic injuries. The prompt identification of the etiology in such cases is critical for preventing recurrence and avoiding potentially fatal complications.

Source: Medicina

DOI: 10.3390/medicina60101685

Authors: Adrian-Gabriel Florescu, Evelina-Ioana Galeș, Sabina Adriana Frunză, Camelia Cristina Diaconu

Institutions: Clinical Emergency Hospital Bucharest, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Academia Oamenilor de Știință din România

Language: English

Topic: Thyroid Disorders and Treatments

Subfield: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,046