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.
Authors
- Joana Rego
- Tânia Pereira da Silva
- Glória Alves
- Carlos Fernandes
- Flávia Santos
Institutions
- Unidade Local de Saúde do Alto Ave (PT)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Cureus
- Published
- 2026-11-07
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.119257
- Primary Topic
- Thyroid Disorders and Treatments
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00