Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis: A case series

Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP) is a disorder most commonly observed in Asian men. It is characterized by acute flaccid paralysis with hypokalemia. The condition primarily affects the lower limbs and can be secondary to thyrotoxicosis. The main characteristic features of TPP are increased thyroid hormone levels, hypokalemia and proximal muscle weakness, or paralysis. In this study, we report six cases of TPP. All the cases had potassium levels of <2.5 mEq/L and weakness of limbs, which were reversed after the correction of potassium levels. The etiology of elevated thyroid hormone levels was found to be Graves’ disease in all the cases. Upon treatment of hyperthyroidism, none of the subjects had a recurrence of weakness. In young subjects with sudden-onset weakness, it is important to consider TPP as one of the differential diagnoses.