Atypical Presentation of Periodic Paralysis: A Case Report

  • Aysun Isiklar Prof. Dr. Ilhan Varank Sancaktepe Training and Research Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
Keywords: Periodic Paralysis, Potassium, Muscle Weakness, Dizziness, Hypokalemia

Abstract

Hypokalemic periodic paralysis (HPP) is a kind of periodic paralysis, which is a heterogeneous group of muscle diseases. It is characterized by episodes of flaccid and sudden muscle weakness.

Here, we present a case of HPP. The patient was referred to our department because of severe dizziness and fall. After a comprehensive evaluation, a markedly low potassium was detected. The patient’s symptoms resolved after replacement of potassium and he was discharged without deficits. Even though the literature reports an association with exercise, carbohydrate load, and stress, further workup in our patient revealed no association with these precipitants. A proper differential diagnosis should rule out other causes of weakness and paralysis, thus allowing a timely treatment.

Author Biography

Aysun Isiklar, Prof. Dr. Ilhan Varank Sancaktepe Training and Research Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
Department of Internal Medicine

References

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Published
2019-02-04
Section
Case report
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