European Journal of Internal Medicine
Volume 18, Issue 5 , Pages 380-390, September 2007

Thyrotoxic hypokalemic periodic paralysis: An overlooked pathology in western countries

  • Arsenio Pompeo

      Affiliations

    • Division of Internal Medicine, “Floraspe Renzetti” Hospital, A.S.L. 103 Lanciano-Vasto, via del Mare, 1. 66034 Lanciano (Ch), Italy
    • Corresponding Author InformationCorresponding author. Tel.: +39 0872 706394; fax: +39 0872 706461.
    • ,
  • Amleto Nepa

      Affiliations

    • Division of Internal Medicine, “Floraspe Renzetti” Hospital, A.S.L. 103 Lanciano-Vasto, via del Mare, 1. 66034 Lanciano (Ch), Italy
    • ,
  • Maurizio Maddestra

      Affiliations

    • Division of Neurology, “Floraspe Renzetti” Hospital, Lanciano (Ch), Italy
    • ,
  • Vincenzo Feliziani

      Affiliations

    • Division of Internal Medicine, “Floraspe Renzetti” Hospital, A.S.L. 103 Lanciano-Vasto, via del Mare, 1. 66034 Lanciano (Ch), Italy
    • ,
  • Nicola Genovesi

      Affiliations

    • Intensive Care Unit “Floraspe Renzetti” Hospital, Lanciano (Ch), Italy

Received 3 August 2006; received in revised form 12 March 2007; accepted 16 March 2007. published online 20 June 2007.

Abstract 

Thyrotoxic hypokalemic periodic paralysis (THPP) is a complication of hyperthyroidism that is mostly diagnosed in Asian populations; consequently, it can be difficult to recognize in western populations. THPP represents an endocrine emergency that can result in respiratory insufficiency, cardiac arrhythmias, and death. Its differential diagnosis from the other more common forms of hypokalemic paralysis is important to avoid inappropriate therapy. Here, we discuss the main pathogenetic hypotheses, clinical features, and therapies of this disease. We also report an example of THPP management in our primary care unit.

Keywords: Hyperthyroidism, Toxic thyroid nodule, Hypokalemic periodic paralysis, Hypokalemia/complications, Na+/K+-ATPase

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PII: S0953-6205(07)00102-1

doi:10.1016/j.ejim.2007.03.003

European Journal of Internal Medicine
Volume 18, Issue 5 , Pages 380-390, September 2007

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