Key result
Treatment with propranolol and methimazol resulted in the patient remaining euthyroid and symptom-free at one year follow-up.
Case Report (n=1)
Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis should be considered in patients presenting with acute paralysis and hypokalemia, prompting evaluation of thyroid function.
Supports thyroid evaluation in hypokalemic paralysis; leaves open propranolol-methimazole efficacy for sustained remission in thyrotoxic periodic paralysis.
We describe a 37-year-old man with a 4-month history of episodic muscular weakness, involving mainly lower-limbs. Hypokalemia was documented in one episode and managed with intravenous potassium chloride. Hyperthyroidism was diagnosed 4 months after onset of attacks because of mild symptoms. The patient was subsequently diagnosed as having thyrotoxic periodic paralysis associated with Graves' disease. Treatment with propranolol and methimazol was initiated and one year later he remains euthyroid and symptom free. Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis is a rare disorder, especially among Caucasians, but it should always be considered in patients with acute paralysis and hypokalemia, and thyroid function should be evaluated.
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Barahona et al. (2009) conducted a case report in Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis associated with Graves' disease (n=1). Propranolol and methimazol was evaluated on Euthyroid and symptom free status. Treatment with propranolol and methimazol resulted in the patient remaining euthyroid and symptom-free at one year follow-up.
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