Hypokalemic periodic paralysis is a rare autosomal dominant disorder, caused by a defect in calcium or sodium channels. Common triggers include intense physical activity, high carbohydrate intake, and stress. These paralysis episodes usually resolve within a few hours to a few days.
The aim of this article is to describe the hypokalemic periodic paralysis and its differential diagnosis.
What is already known about the topic?
Hypokalemic periodic paralysis is a rare genetic disorder (estimated prevalence of 1/100,000) that is too often overlooked in the differential diagnosis of acute muscular weakness. Despite the autosomal dominant transmission of the disease, family history is not always relevant due to incomplete penetrance and the occurrence of de novo mutations.
What does this article bring up for us?
In this article, we focus on the current knowledge concerning hypokalemic periodic paralysis, its differential diagnosis, and recommended management.
Key Words
Paralysis, hypokalemia