A Rare Existence of Myasthenia Gravis with Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis – A Case Report

Abstract

Hypokalemic periodic paralysis is a rare, autosomal dominant channelopathy characterized by muscle weakness or paralysis when there is a fall in potassium levels in the blood. Recovery is usually sudden when it occurs, due to release of potassium from swollen muscles as they recover. Weakness can be caused by a number of neurological disorders including Myastenia gravis, Guillain – Barre syndrome. Other than neurologic causes, Electrolyte imbalance is the commonly understood factor. Repeated episodes of weakness associated with low serum potassium levels along with almost normal serum potassium levels in-between attacks make HPP different from other disorders. HPP is a rare neuromuscular disorder that may be associated with thyrotoxicosis, hyperaldosteronism and certain drugs. An occurrence of Myastenia gravis and Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis together in the same patient has been rarely reported.