A Case Report on Hypokalemic Quadriparesis

Abstract

Hypokalemic quadriparesis is a rare phenomenon with potentially life-threatening clinical syndrome. It represents a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by hypokalemia and acute systemic weakness which are clinically modifiable. It results from alteration in transcellular distribution of potassium or transcellular shift of potassium and actual potassium depletion from renal and extra-renal losses. Hypokalemic quadriparesis management depends on the etiology of hypokalaemia, duration of disease, underlying diseases, family history, medication history and disease state. The cause of hypokalemia induced quadriparesis is relatively low which gets resolved over time; with most of the symptoms remain undetected. Patients with normal thyroid function, no renal loss of potassium and normal acid balance can be pharmacologically managed with oral potassium and intravenous potassium.