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Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis

Robert Baldor, md Reviewed 04/2024
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

Hypokalemic periodic paralysis is a syndrome characterized by episodes of motor weakness accompanied by low serum potassium levels in between periods of well-being. 

EPIDEMIOLOGY

Prevalence

DIAGNOSIS

  • The diagnostic criteria for primary paralysis are provided by the European Neuromuscular Centre (ENMC) (2) and include:

    • Two or more attacks of muscle weakness with documented serum K <3.5...

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

  • Low intensity exercise at the start of an attack may help prevent further progression.

  • In acute state—potassium supplementation in a monitored environment after confirming the...

ONGOING CARE

  • Chronic management plan involves preventive strategies such as a low-carbohydrate diet and avoiding high-intensity exercises.

  • A Cochrane review suggests that although there is still lack o...

REFERENCES

1
Vicart  S, Sternberg  D, Arzel-Hézode  M, et al. Hypokalemic periodic paralysis. In: Adam  MP, Ardinger  HH, Pagon  RA, et al., eds. Gene Reviews. Seattle, WA: Univ...

ADDITIONAL READING

Statland JM, Fontaine B, Hanna MG, et al. Review of the diagnosis and treatment of periodic paralysis.  Muscle Nerve. 2018;57(4):522–530. doi:10.1002/mus.26009 ...

CODES

ICD10

G72.3 Periodic paralysis 

SNOMED

82732003 Familial hypokalemic periodic paralysis (disorder) 

CLINICAL PEARLS

  • Hypokalemic periodic paralysis presents with low potassium levels during attacks with return to normal ranges following recovery, making the diagnosis difficult to obtain between episo...

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