Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis induced by thyrotoxicosis factitia: A case report
10.3760/cma.j.cn311282-20241211-00584
- VernacularTitle:人为甲状腺毒症导致甲状腺毒性周期性麻痹一例
- Author:
Liang WANG
1
;
Huafeng LI
1
;
Ruizhen REN
1
;
Xiufeng HUA
1
;
Yuxiao TANG
1
;
Yaping HAO
1
Author Information
1. 青岛大学附属烟台毓璜顶医院内分泌科，烟台 264000
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Thyrotoxicosis factitia;
Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis;
Thyroglobulin;
Hypokalemia
- From:
Chinese Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism
2025;41(7):584-587
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis(TPP) is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication of thyrotoxicosis. TPP secondary to thyrotoxicosis factitia(TF) is exceptionally uncommon. Here, we report the case of a 31-year-old female who developed TF and subsequent TPP after taking laxatives containing unknown ingredients. The patient presented with acute onset of quadriplegia. Laboratory investigations revealed severe hypokalemia(serum potassium 1.47mmol/L), thyrotoxicosis[thyroid stimulating hormone(TSH)<0.005 mIU/L, free thyroxine(FT 4) 30.84 pmol/L, free triiodothyronine(FT 3) 7.71 pmol/L], and a decreased thyroglobulin level(3.08 ng/mL). The patient′s symptoms resolved rapidly following potassium supplementation, and thyroid function gradually normalized after discontinuation of the suspected medication. This case highlights the importance of considering TF in the differential diagnosis of TPP, particularly in patients with a history of unknown medication use. It also underscores the diagnostic value of thyroglobulin measurement in identifying TF and outlines clinical strategies for the management of TF-induced TPP.
