Autoimmune Voltage-Gated Potassium Channelopathy Presenting With Catecholamine Excess

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Immunology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Autoimmune voltage-gated potassium channelopathies present with diverse neurological symptoms.
• These conditions can affect central, peripheral, and autonomic nervous systems.

Observation:

• A 12-year-old boy experienced pain, anxiety, weight loss, hypertension, and tachycardia.
• Elevated plasma and urine metanephrines and catecholamines were detected.
• Investigations for common causes of catecholamine excess were negative.

Findings:

• The patient tested positive for voltage-gated potassium channel antibodies.
• Treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin and pulse methylprednisolone led to symptom resolution.
• Vital signs, weight, and metanephrine levels normalized post-treatment.

Implications:

• Voltage-gated potassium channel antibodies are a crucial consideration in patients with unexplained catecholamine excess.
• This case underscores the link between autoimmune channelopathies and endocrine dysfunction.
• Immunotherapy can effectively manage neurological and autonomic symptoms associated with these antibodies.