A Case of Thyrotoxic Periodic Paralysis Associated with Transient Thyrotoxicosis

Article information

Kosin Med J. 2012;27(2):167-171
Publication date (electronic) : 2012 December 27
doi : https://doi.org/10.7180/kmj.2012.27.2.167
Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Kosin University, Busan, Korea.
Corresponding Author: Young Sik Choi, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Kosin University, 34, Amnam-dong, Seo-gu, Busan 602-702, Korea. TEL: +82-51-990-6102, FAX: +82-51-248-5686, yschoi@ns.kosinmed.or.kr
Received 2012 April 23; Revised 2012 April 25; Accepted 2012 June 07.

Abstract

Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis is an acute muscle weakness of the limbs associated with hypokalemia. It can occur with any form of thyrotoxicosis. Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis associated with transient thyrotoxicosis due to thyroiditis is very rare. We experienced a case of thyrotoxic periodic paralysis associated with transient thyrotoxicosis. A 39-yr-old man was referred to our hospital because of paralysis of upper and lower extremity. The laboratory results were hypokalemia and mild thyrotoxicosis. A thyroid scan with Tc-99m revealed decreased uptake in the thyroid area compatible with destructive thyroiditis. The paralytic attack did not recur after the patient recovered to euthyroid state.

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Article information Continued

Fig. 1

Electrocardiography reveals sinus tachycardia, nonspecific T wave abnormalities, and mild high QRS voltage criteria.

Fig. 2

Ultrasonography of the neck. A sonogram reveals a decreased echo in right lobe of thyroid gland.

Fig. 3

Tc-99m thyroid scan revealed decrease uptake of tracers.