Thyrotoxic Periodic Paralysis: A Puzzling Case of Chest Pain and Weakness

Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis is an uncommon thyroid emergency that is associated with electrolyte disturbances and a progressive flaccid paralysis of lower and upper extremities. Although not typically diagnosed within the emergency department setting, advanced practice registered nurses may be key in identifying this unusual condition where rapid and appropriate treatment precipitated by hyperthyroidism, most commonly resulting from Graves' disease can mitigate adverse cardiac, renal, and neurologic sequelae.