Hypokalemic periodic paralysis (HPP) is an uncommon condition resulting from channelopathy, impacting skeletal muscles. It is distinguished by episodes of sudden and temporary muscle weakness alongside low potassium levels. The normalization of potassium resolves the associated paralysis. Most of these cases are hereditary. Few cases are acquired and are associated with an etiology related to endocrine disorders (e.g., thyrotoxicosis, hyperaldosteronism, and hypercortisolism). It is characterized by acute flaccid paralysis, usually of the ascending type, affecting the proximal region more than the distal region. Herein, we report the case of a 29-year-old male who instead of the ascending type presented with descending-type acute flaccid paralysis. Potassium level at presentation was 1.7 mEq/L. The patient was managed with parenteral and oral potassium supplementation, after which the weakness was completely resolved.
Keywords: flaccid paralysis; hypokalemia; potassium; skeletal muscles; weakness.
Copyright © 2024, Bhatia et al.