Glucocorticoid-induced Thyrotoxic Periodic Paralysis Following Lumbar Nerve Root Block

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Neurology

Background:

• Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP) is a rare but serious complication of hyperthyroidism.
• TPP typically presents with hypokalemia and acute muscle weakness, often affecting the lower limbs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of TPP triggered by glucocorticoid injection.
• To raise awareness among clinicians regarding glucocorticoid-induced TPP in hyperthyroid patients.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a patient with hyperthyroidism who developed acute muscle weakness after a glucocorticoid injection.
• Laboratory investigations including potassium levels and thyroid function tests.
• Clinical assessment and response to treatment.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with progressive lower limb weakness and confirmed hypokalemia and hyperthyroidism.
• Symptoms resolved with intravenous potassium administration.
• The patient was diagnosed with TPP triggered by the glucocorticoid injection.

Conclusions:

• Glucocorticoid injection is an uncommon but potential trigger for TPP.
• Clinicians should consider glucocorticoid-induced TPP in the differential diagnosis of muscle weakness in hyperthyroid patients.
• Awareness of diverse TPP triggers is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.