Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis: a rare cause of periodic paralysis - a case report

Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP) is a rare complication of hyperthyroidism characterized by episodes of muscle weakness and hypokalemia. Patients may present with a sudden onset of muscle weakness. Though hyperthyroidism occurs more commonly in females, TPP typically occurs in young males in their third decade.

This is a case of a 32-year-old male who presented to the emergency room with a sudden onset of weakness in bilateral upper and lower limbs, which progressed to complete paralysis in an hour. A provisional diagnosis of hypokalemic periodic paralysis was made and admitted. Later, on further diagnostic workup, the final diagnosis of TPP was made.

Clinical features of hyperthyroidism in patients with TPP may be subtle. With immediate potassium supplementation, serious cardiopulmonary complications can be prevented and may hasten the recovery of muscle weakness. Nonselective β-adrenergic blockers can lessen and prevent the recurrence of paralytic attacks.

This case is reported with the objective of generating awareness regarding the clues to the diagnosis, appropriate management, and definitive treatment to a render euthyroid state in order to prevent future recurrence of similar episodes and prevent any complications, and eventually to raise the index of suspicion among treating physicians in cases that present with paralysis in clinical practice.