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Thyrotoxic Periodic Paralysis

Abstract

Nimat Alam, Linda Esteban, Enrique Tobias and Jenet George

Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP) is characterized by abrupt onset of hypokalemia and paralysis. This condition primarily affects the lower extremities but may affect both upper and lower extremities and is secondary to thyrotoxicosis. It is most commonly seen in Asian men and it has been increasingly reported in USA due to the rise in the immigrant population. Hypokalemia in TPP results from an intracellular shift of potassium induced by the thyroid hormone sensitization of Na+/K+ATPase rather than depletion of total body potassium.