[Hypokalemic and thyrotoxic paralysis--similarities and differences]

Abstract

Hypokalaemic periodic paralysis (HPP) is a rare myopathy inherited in autosomal dominantly pattern, characterized by episodic attacks of muscle weakness due to the decrease in serum potassium concentration because of ion channel's dysfunction. The thyrotoxic hypokalaemic paralysis (TPP) is an acquired form of a periodic paralysis associated directly with hyperthyroidism. HPP predominates in Caucasians, in contrast to TPP which occurs in 13-24% Asian with hyperthyroidism. Both types of hypokalaemic paralysis are similar in symptoms i.e. the sudden onset of limbs paralysis, often in the morning, after the night rest, preceded by intense exercise testing or hard work. The treatment and the prevention of TPP differs from that of HPP. Both, similarities and differences, between HPP and TPP are described in this report.