Thyrotoxic Periodic Paralysis in an Asian Male With Graves' Disease
Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP) is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication of hyperthyroidism. We present the case of a 27-year-old Asian male with long-standing, untreated hyperthyroidism who presented with recurrent episodes of sudden, reversible muscle weakness. These episodes involved acute flaccid paralysis predominantly affecting the lower limbs and hypokalemia, which improved rapidly with careful potassium replacement. Further investigation confirmed a diffuse toxic goiter consistent with Graves' disease. Interestingly, anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies were found in the absence of any clinical findings of myasthenia gravis, suggesting a possible autoimmune predisposition. This case underscores the importance of early recognition of TPP to ensure timely management, prevent recurrence, and reduce the risk of complications.
Authors
- Muhammad Masudul Hasan Nuri
- Ans Ahmad
- Basimah Mehmood Wardah
Institutions
- Tabba Heart Institute (PK)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Cureus
- Published
- 2025-11-04
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.96063
- Primary Topic
- Ion channel regulation and function
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00