Acta Neurologica Indonesia
Vol. 4 No. 3 (2026): Acta Neurologica Indonesia

Thyrotoxic Periodic Paralysis Associated With Graves' Disease

Pinzon, Rizaldy Taslim (Unknown)
Hanifa, Jeany (Unknown)
Putra, Stefanus Erdana (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
01 Oct 2026

Abstract

Introduction: Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis is an uncommon, life-threatening complication of hyperthyroidism characterized by acute flaccid paralysis and severe hypokalemia due to an intracellular shift of potassium. Case Report: A 20-year-old male of Southeast Asian descent presented with sudden-onset, symmetrical flaccid quadriparesis upon waking. Neurological examination revealed proximal-predominant muscle weakness and diminished deep tendon reflexes with preserved sensory function. Biochemical evaluation confirmed severe hypokalemia (2.13 mmol/L) accompanied by primary hyperthyroidism, with a suppressed thyroid-stimulating hormone level (<0.05 µIU/L) and elevated free thyroxine (66.7 pmol/L). Electrocardiography demonstrated ST-segment depression and QT-interval prolongation, and thyroid ultrasonography suggested diffuse edema consistent with Graves' disease. Discussion: Cautious intravenous and oral potassium replacement, coupled with oral propranolol and propylthiouracil, led to rapid normalization of potassium levels and complete motor recovery within 24 hours without rebound hyperkalemia. Conclusion: This case emphasizes the necessity of screening for underlying thyroid dysfunction in young adults presenting with unexplained hypokalemia paralysis to prevent fatal cardiopulmonary complications.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

journal

Publisher

Subject

Medicine & Pharmacology Neuroscience Public Health

Description

Acta Neurologica Indonesia is the official publication of the Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia under Directorate of Administration, Data, and Product Management of Research and Innovation Universitas Indonesia. This journal is published in trimonthly cycle with ...