[Pseudo-Conn's syndrome with hypokalemic paralysis due to diuretics and licorice abuse]

Dyskalemic paralyses are characterised by single or periodic episodes with muscle weakness that affect mostly the proximal skeletal muscles. Symptoms may last for a few hours or persist for several days, spontaneous recovery is common. Familial cases can be distinguished from secondary, non-familial forms which are based on other diseases, for example, of the thyroid gland, kidneys or gastrointestinal tract. Familial cases are mostly inherited in an autosomal-dominant pattern and belong to the channelopathies. Both groups are characterised by changed potassium levels in the blood during an episode. A detailed and accurate medical history (plus family history, use of medication and eating habits) often easily leads to the diagnosis. Provoking tests or instrumental and histological investigations can help to solve difficult cases. Treatment focuses on relieving acute symptoms and attacks can be managed by correcting the blood potassium to a normal level. Changing eating and/or exercise habits and also permanent medical treatment helps to prevent further attacks.