An unexpected cause of proximal myopathy. (29th June 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Townsend, Sarah Ann; Smith, Matt; Harris, Wyn; Chudleigh, Richard
• Is Part Of: BMJ case reports. Volume 2012
• Publication Date: 2012-06-29
• Subjects: Medicine -- Case studies -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1136/bcr-02-2012-5809
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-790X

Abstract

Abstract : A 25-year-old man presented with a short history of profound proximal muscle weakness such that he was unable to stand. Laboratory investigations demonstrated hypokalaemia and mildly elevated serum creatine kinase. He reported a history of 8–10 episodes of less severe weakness in the preceding 8 years and his mother reported similar symptoms. The combination of weakness and hypokalaemia with a probable family history suggested the diagnosis of hypokalaemic periodic paralysis. He was treated with intravenous and oral potassium supplementation, and regained full power within 24 h.