Thyrotoxic Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis Presenting As Acute Tetraparesis: A Case Report

Thyrotoxic hypokalemic periodic paralysis (TPP) is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication of hyperthyroidism, usually associated with Graves' disease.We report the case of a 29-year-old man with acute flaccid tetraparesis associated with severe hypokalemia.Prompt potassium replacement resulted in rapid clinical and biochemical improvement.The diagnosis of TPP was established based on the clinical presentation, the presence of thyrotoxicosis, severe hypokalemia, and rapid clinical improvement following potassium replacement.Awareness of this condition is essential for early diagnosis and appropriate management, as delayed recognition may result in potentially life-threatening complications, including cardiac arrhythmias and respiratory failure.

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Journal
Cureus
Published
2026-11-07
DOI
https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.119257
Primary Topic
Thyroid Disorders and Treatments
Type
article
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0.00
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article

Thyrotoxic Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis Presenting As Acute Tetraparesis: A Case Report

Joana Rego, Tânia Pereira da Silva, Glória Alves, Carlos Fernandes et al.
Cureus
Thyroid Disorders and Treatments
article

Thyrotoxic Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis Presenting As Acute Tetraparesis: A Case Report

Joana Rego, Tânia Pereira da Silva, Glória Alves, Carlos Fernandes, Flávia Santos
article en

Abstract

Thyrotoxic hypokalemic periodic paralysis (TPP) is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication of hyperthyroidism, usually associated with Graves' disease.We report the case of a 29-year-old man with acute flaccid tetraparesis associated with severe hypokalemia.Prompt potassium replacement resulted in rapid clinical and biochemical improvement.The diagnosis of TPP was established based on the clinical presentation, the presence of thyrotoxicosis, severe hypokalemia, and rapid clinical improvement following potassium replacement.Awareness of this condition is essential for early diagnosis and appropriate management, as delayed recognition may result in potentially life-threatening complications, including cardiac arrhythmias and respiratory failure.

Cureus
Unidade Local de Saúde do Alto Ave (PT)
Good health and well-being
Openalex Percentile: Top 13%
Thyroid Disorders and Treatments
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Thyrotoxic Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis Presenting As Acute Tetraparesis: A Case Report — Joana Rego, Tânia Pereira da Silva, et al. · Cureus (2026) | TGRS Research Map | TGRS