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1.
JNMA J Nepal Med Assoc ; 62(271): 214-216, 2024 Feb 29.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39356778

ABSTRACT

ABSTRACT: Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich Syndrome is a very rare congenital malformation of the urogenital tract involving both the Mullerian and Wolffian ducts characterized by the triad uterine diadelphys, obstructed vagina, and unilateral renal agenesis. If not diagnosed on time it may progress to adverse gynecological complications making timely diagnosis and treatment crucial. We hereby present a 14-year girl with right flank pain diagnosed as Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich Syndrome by ultrasound scan which was managed surgically with drainage of hydrocolpos and marsupialization of vaginal septum. On two weeks follow up patient had symptomatic improvement with no any complications.


Subject(s)
Hydrocolpos , Mullerian Ducts , Vagina , Humans , Female , Adolescent , Hydrocolpos/diagnosis , Hydrocolpos/complications , Vagina/abnormalities , Vagina/surgery , Mullerian Ducts/abnormalities , Syndrome , Uterus/abnormalities , Uterus/surgery , Abnormalities, Multiple , Ultrasonography/methods , Urogenital Abnormalities/complications , Urogenital Abnormalities/diagnosis , Urogenital Abnormalities/surgery , Wolffian Ducts/abnormalities , Drainage/methods , Flank Pain/etiology , Kidney/abnormalities , Kidney/diagnostic imaging
2.
Cureus ; 16(9): e68395, 2024 Sep.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39355460

ABSTRACT

Acute quadriparesis is caused by severe and sudden weakness of all four limbs, which is a distressing clinical presentation that demands immediate and comprehensive investigation. This case report presents a unique instance of acute quadriparesis secondary to an adrenal tumor. A 54-year-old female presented with acute weakness in her upper and lower limbs over six hours without a prior history of fever, convulsions, or other systemic symptoms. Laboratory evaluations revealed significant hypokalemia, prompting further investigation. Differential diagnoses such as Guillain-Barré syndrome, demyelinating lesions, and myopathy were systematically ruled out through clinical evaluation and diagnostic testing. The patient's hypokalemia was aggressively managed with intravenous potassium replacement, leading to significant improvement in muscle strength. Radiological imaging revealed a hyperenhancing lesion in the left adrenal gland, consistent with an adrenal tumor. Elevated serum aldosterone levels supported the diagnosis of hyperaldosteronism. The patient's condition stabilized with intravenous potassium and antihypertensive medications, and a laparoscopic adrenalectomy was performed to remove the adrenal tumor. Postoperatively, the patient's blood pressure and electrolyte levels normalized, and she experienced a full recovery of muscle strength. This case highlights the importance of considering endocrine disorders in the differential diagnosis of acute quadriparesis and underscores the need for a comprehensive diagnostic approach, including routine electrolyte assessments, hormonal evaluations, and thorough imaging studies. Effective management involving prompt identification and treatment of underlying causes is critical for optimal patient outcomes. This case contributes valuable insights into the diverse clinical manifestations of adrenal tumors and the importance of early and accurate diagnosis.

3.
J Med Case Rep ; 18(1): 463, 2024 Oct 06.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39369228

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Primary aldosteronism is characterized by high plasma aldosterone and low renin. The plasma aldosterone-to-renin ratio is recommended for screening. Severe hydronephrosis leads to renal parenchymal ischemia, resulting in increased renin secretion. Since nonsuppression of renin may cause a negative result in the aldosterone-to-renin ratio test, severe hydronephrosis and primary aldosteronism occurring simultaneously in a patient are challenging to diagnose. CASE PRESENTATION: A 54-year-old Chinese man of Han ethnicity was diagnosed with hypertension and severe hypokalemia (minimum 1.57 mmol/L) 13 years prior, and was also diagnosed with severe hydronephrosis due to congenital ureteral stenosis on the left side. His clinical features suggested primary aldosteronism, but the aldosterone-to-renin ratio result of the patient was negative every time he underwent the primary aldosteronism screening test. No further treatment for primary aldosteronism was performed, which led the patient to suffer from severe hypokalemia, such that he was taking 12-15 g/day potassium chloride orally to keep his blood potassium between 3.0 and 3.5 mmol/L (reference value, 3.5-5.5 mmol/L) for 13 years, and the patient needed to be hospitalized in the intensive care unit for rescue several times. At admission, although the aldosterone-to-renin ratio result of the patient was negative, we still did the saline stress test and captopril inhibition test, and the results showed that the plasma aldosterone level was not lower after the test than before the test. Adrenal enhanced computed tomography suggested an adenoma in the left adrenal gland, and the results of adrenal vein sampling suggested that the left side was the dominant side. Therefore, laparoscopic total resection of the left adrenal gland was performed, and 2 weeks later, the patient developed short-term renal function impairment and hyperkalemia, but his renal function and blood potassium returned to normal after treatment that included fluid rehydration. The patient's biochemical test results and clinical symptoms were completely normal after 1 year. CONCLUSION: We suggest that for patients with a high suspicion of primary aldosteronism in the clinic, comprehensive analysis must be performed in combination with clinical characteristic assessments, such as severe hydronephrosis, if renin is within the normal range or if the aldosterone-to-renin ratio result is negative at screening and diagnostic tests, and adrenal vein sampling should be performed if necessary. It can help avoid misdiagnoses and contribute to the treatment of patients with severe hydronephrosis and primary aldosteronism.


Subject(s)
Hydronephrosis , Hyperaldosteronism , Hypokalemia , Renin , Humans , Male , Hyperaldosteronism/complications , Hyperaldosteronism/diagnosis , Middle Aged , Hydronephrosis/etiology , Hypokalemia/etiology , Renin/blood , Aldosterone/blood , Adrenalectomy , Hypertension
4.
J Investig Med High Impact Case Rep ; 12: 23247096241286373, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39380334

ABSTRACT

Methadone, a well-known drug used for pain control and as a treatment for opioid addiction, can cause arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP), which may progress to ventricular fibrillation and sudden death. We present a case of a middle-aged woman with a long history of methadone use who presented to the emergency department after experiencing cardiac arrest at home. During her hospitalization, she experienced multiple episodes of TdP that improved with isoproterenol and potassium correction. The initial diagnosis was methadone-induced prolonged QT. However, even with discontinuation of methadone, her QTc remained prolonged. Congenital long QT syndrome was suspected, and genetic testing was instructed to test in the outpatient setting. She was discharged on nadolol and a LifeVest.


Subject(s)
Electrocardiography , Hypokalemia , Long QT Syndrome , Methadone , Torsades de Pointes , Humans , Female , Methadone/adverse effects , Hypokalemia/chemically induced , Long QT Syndrome/chemically induced , Middle Aged , Torsades de Pointes/chemically induced , Opioid-Related Disorders/drug therapy , Analgesics, Opioid/adverse effects
5.
Biopsychosoc Med ; 18(1): 19, 2024 Sep 29.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39343908

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: A decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR), estimated using creatinine (Cr- eGFR), is often found at the initial presentation of anorexia nervosa (AN). Its pathophysiology has been explained mainly by dehydration, and chronic hypokalemia is also thought to be a cause. However, because we have often experienced cases of AN with decreased Cr-eGFR without these conditions, we must consider different etiologies. The focus of this paper is on low free triiodothyronine (FT3) syndrome. We also discuss the utility of eGFR, estimated using cystatin-C (CysC-eGFR), for these patients. METHODS: The data of 39 patients diagnosed with AN between January 2005 and December 2023 was available for study. The characteristics of patients at the lowest and highest body mass index standard deviation score (BMI-SDS) were examined. Data on the parameters Cr-eGFR, CysC-eGFR, dehydration markers, potassium (K), and hormonal data and BMI-SDS were assessed during the treatment course to evaluate the correlations in these parameters. Blood hematocrit, uric acid (UA), blood urine nitrogen (BUN) level, and urine specific gravity were adopted as dehydration markers; FT3, free thyroxine, thyroid stimulating hormone, and insulin-like growth factor were adopted as hormonal data. Cr-eGFR and simultaneously evaluated dehydration markers, K, or hormonal data were extracted and correlations associated with the changes in BMI-SDS were examined. Furthermore, Cr-eGFR and simultaneously assessed CysC-eGFR were compared. RESULTS: When the BMI-SDS was at the lowest value, low-FT3 syndrome was shown. Severe hypokalemia was not found in our study. A linear relation was not found between Cr-eGFR and BMI-SDS. A statistically significant correlation was found between Cr-eGFR and FT3 (p = 0.0025). Among the dehydration markers, statistically significant correlations were found between Cr-eGFR and BUN or UA. The difference between Cr-eGFR and CysC-eGFR was prominent, and CysC-eGFR showed much higher values. CONCLUSIONS: Our data indicates that low-FT3 syndrome and dehydration were related to the renal function of our patients with AN. Furthermore, our data suggest that caution is needed in the interpretation of kidney function evaluation when using CysC-eGFR in cases of AN.

6.
Cureus ; 16(8): e67289, 2024 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39301344

ABSTRACT

Bartter syndrome is a rare salt-wasting renal tubular disorder of autosomal-recessive inheritance. Antenatal Bartter syndrome (types I, II, and IV) manifests in infancy and has a more severe course compared to the classic Bartter syndrome (type III). This report details a unique instance of a male toddler, aged 18 months, who presented with failure to thrive, polydipsia, and polyuria. Blood gases revealed hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis with hyponatremia and hypokalemia. The diagnosis was confirmed by genetic testing, and the child was started on indomethacin and potassium supplementation. Despite being rare in children, this case report emphasizes the importance of looking beyond the usual in a child who presents with failure to thrive to prevent a delay in the diagnosis and treatment.

7.
World J Transplant ; 14(3): 95905, 2024 Sep 18.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39295980

ABSTRACT

Disturbances of potassium balance are often encountered when managing kidney transplant recipients (KTR). Both hyperkalemia and hypokalemia may present either as medical emergencies or chronic outpatient abnormalities. Despite the high incidence of hyperkalemia and its potential life-threatening implications, consensus on its management in KTR is lacking. Hypokalemia in KTR is also well-described, although it is given less attention by clinicians compared to hyperkalemia. This article discusses the etiology, pathophysiology and management of both types of potassium disorders in KTR. Once any emergent situation has been corrected, treatment approaches include correcting insulin deficiency if present, adjusting non-immunosuppressive and immunosuppressive medications, eliminating or supplementing potassium as needed, and dietary counselling. Although commonly of multifactorial etiology, ascertaining the specific cause in a particular patient will help guide successful management. Monitoring KTR through regular laboratory testing is essential to detect serious disturbances in potassium balance since patients are often asymptomatic.

8.
J Nephrol ; 2024 Sep 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39277836

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Hypokalemia has been associated with an increased risk of peritoneal dialysis (PD)-associated peritonitis. However, hypokalemia is commonly associated with malnutrition, inflammation, and severe coexisting comorbidities, which thus are suspected of being potential confounders. This study was aimed at testing whether hypokalemia was independently associated with the occurrence and prognosis of PD-associated peritonitis. METHODS: A national-level dataset from the Peritoneal Dialysis Telemedicine-assisted Platform Cohort (PDTAP) Study was used to explore the independent association of serum potassium with PD-associated peritonitis. Unmatched and propensity score-adjusted multivariate competing risk models, as well as univariate competing risk models following 1:1 propensity score matching, were conducted to balance potential biases between patients with and without hypokalemia. The association between potassium levels prior to peritonitis and treatment failure due to peritonitis was also investigated. RESULTS: During a median follow-up of 25.7 months in 7220 PD patients, there was a higher incidence of peritonitis in patients with serum potassium below 4.0 mmol/L compared to those with higher serum levels (677 [0.114/patient-year] vs. 914 [0.096/patient-year], P = 0.001). After adjusting for demographics, laboratory tests, residual renal function, and medication use, baseline potassium levels below 4.0 mmol/L were not linked to an increased risk of peritonitis, with a hazard ratio of 0.983 (95% CI 0.855-1.130, P = 0.810). This result remained consistent in both the propensity score adjusted multivariate competing risk regression (HR = 0.974, 95% CI 0.829-1.145, P = 0.750) and the univariate competing risk regression after 1:1 propensity score matching (Fine-Gray test, P = 0.218). The results were similar when analyzing patients with serum potassium level above or below 3.5 mmol/L. Lastly, hypokalemia before the occurrence of peritonitis was not independently associated with treatment failure. CONCLUSION: Hypokalemia was not found to be an independent risk factor for PD-associated peritonitis or treatment failure of peritonitis in China.

9.
Heliyon ; 10(17): e37136, 2024 Sep 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39286072

ABSTRACT

Background: Barium, as a heavy divalent alkaline earth metal, can be found in various products such as rodenticides, insecticides, depilatories, and fireworks. Barium can be highly toxic upon both acute and chronic exposure. The toxicity of barium compounds is dependent on their solubility. Both suicidal and accidental exposures to soluble barium can cause toxicity. Case summary: We report a case characterized by two different wide QRS complex tachycardia in a patient with acute barium poisoning, one due to barium-induced ventricular tachycardia (VT) under hypokalemia and, subsequently, sino-ventricular conduction with intraventricular conduction delay due to hyperkalemia after aggressive potassium supplementation. The latter may be misdiagnosed as VT for the history of acute barium poisoning and the absence of peaked T wave in hyperkalemia. Of note, another hemodynamically unstable VT and profound hypokalemia occurred during the potassium-lowering therapy, which, in addition to barium poisoning, may also be due to the iatrogenic hypokalemia. We also observed the prominent T-U waves at serum potassium of 4.6 mM 12 hours after admission, which may indicate that barium had not been completely cleared from the plasma at that moment. There are some parallels to the Andersen-Tawil syndrome with prominent T-U waves and risk of ventricular tachycardias. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of conversion from hypokalemia to hyperkalemia, and in a short moment, from hyperkalemia to hypokalemia, in acute barium poisoning. Conclusion: In addition to profound hypokalemia secondary to acute barium poisoning, hyperkalemia may also occur after aggressive potassium supplementation. A more careful rather than too aggressive potassium supplementation may be suitable in these cases of hypokalemia due to an intracellular shift of potassium. And a iatrogenic hypokalemia risk in the treatment of rebound hyperkalemia in barium poisoning must be considered.

10.
Cureus ; 16(8): e66195, 2024 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39233989

ABSTRACT

Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP) is a clinical condition characterized by hypokalemia, muscle paralysis, and hyperthyroidism. TPP can be challenging to diagnose due to its low disease prevalence and the similarity of paralysis to other common conditions. Through this case report, we highlight the importance of considering hyperthyroidism as a cause of recurrent attacks of muscle paralysis, particularly in the setting of other signs of hyperthyroidism. A 32-year-old Hispanic man with a history of recurrent episodes of muscle weakness presented to the hospital with the acute onset of bilateral lower extremity weakness and an inability to ambulate. Additionally, the patient was experiencing symptoms of hyperthyroidism, including heat intolerance, weight loss, anxiety, and tremors. Lab evaluation showed hypokalemia, and the thyroid panel indicated hyperthyroidism due to Graves disease. His symptoms resolved after the replacement of potassium orally and intravenously, and he was discharged home on methimazole and propranolol. The presented case emphasizes that endocrinological and metabolic causes should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute flaccid paralysis. The symptoms of hyperthyroidism can be subtle in many cases, which can make the diagnosis very challenging.

11.
Pediatr Nephrol ; 2024 Sep 16.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39283520

ABSTRACT

Neonatal hypokalemia (defined as a serum potassium level <3.5 mEq/L) is the most common electrolyte disorder encountered in clinical practice. In addition to common secondary causes, primary genetic etiologies are also closely associated with hypokalemia. Currently, a systematic characterization of these genetic disorders is lacking, making early recognition challenging and clinical management uncertain. This review will aid clinicians by summarizing the genetic background of neonatal hypokalemia from two aspects: (1) increased excretion of K+, whereby genetic factors primarily lead to increased renal Na+ influx, decreased H+ efflux, or reduced Cl- influx, ultimately resulting in increased K+ efflux; and (2) decreased extracellular distribution of K+, whereby genetic factors result in abnormalities in transmembrane ion channels, reducing outward potassium currents or generating inward cation leak currents. We describe over ten genetic diseases associated with neonatal hypokalemia, which involve pathogenic variants in dozens of genes and affect multiple target organs, including the kidneys, intestines, and skeletal muscle. For example, in the renal tubules, pathogenic variants in the SLC12A1 gene encoding the Na+-K+-2Cl- cotransporter lead to renal K+ loss, causing Bartter syndrome type I; in intestinal epithelial cells, pathogenic variants in the SLC26A3 gene result in a defective Cl⁻-HCO3⁻ exchanger, causing congenital chloride diarrhea; and in skeletal muscle, pathogenic variants in the CACNA1S gene impact membrane calcium ion channels resulting in hypokalemic periodic paralysis. Given the wide variety of organs and genetic alterations that can contribute to neonatal hypokalemia, we believe this review will provide valuable insights for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

12.
BMC Nephrol ; 25(1): 315, 2024 Sep 27.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39333966

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Familial hypokalemic periodic paralysis (HypoPP) is an uncommon genetic disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of muscle weakness and hypokalemia, typically starting in early adulthood. The existence of hyperthyroidism in the presence of HypoPP is more strongly associated with a diagnosis of thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP), with most cases occurring in Asian males with pathogenic KCNJ2 or KCNJ18 variants and without a family history of the condition. This case is novel due to the combination of familial HypoPP and hyperthyroidism induced by Graves' disease, a rare occurrence especially in non-Asian populations. CASE PRESENTATION: A 40-year-old African American man presented with profound muscle weakness after consuming a high-salt meal. He had a significant family history of hyperthyroidism and hypokalemia. On examination, he showed profound weakness in all extremities. Laboratory tests confirmed hypokalemia and hyperthyroidism, and genetic testing identified a pathogenic variant in the CACNA1S gene (c.1583 G > A, p. R528H), with normal SCN4A, KCNJ2 and KCNJ18 sequencing. He was diagnosed with familial HypoPP and hyperthyroidism due to Graves' disease. He was started on PO methimazole 10 mg three times a day and PO acetazolamide 250 mg twice a day. He was advised to follow a low carbohydrate and low salt diet. CONCLUSIONS: This case highlights the importance of considering a genetic basis for HypoPP in patients with a family history of the condition, even when hyperthyroidism is present. The combination of familial HypoPP and Graves' disease is rare and emphasizes the need for careful genetic and clinical evaluation in similar cases. Management should focus on correcting hypokalemia, treating hyperthyroidism, and lifestyle modifications to prevent recurrence.


Subject(s)
Hyperthyroidism , Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis , Humans , Male , Adult , Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis/genetics , Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis/etiology , Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis/diagnosis , Hyperthyroidism/genetics , Hyperthyroidism/complications , Graves Disease/genetics , Graves Disease/complications , Calcium Channels, L-Type/genetics
13.
Hypertension ; 2024 Sep 19.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39297209

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of secondary causes of hypertension in young adults is unknown, and therefore, there is no consensus about the indication of screening of secondary hypertension (2HTN) in this population. The objective was to report the prevalence and the causes of 2HTN in young subjects. METHODS: 2090 patients with confirmed hypertension aged 18 to 40 years with full workup for 2HTN screening were included in this cross-sectional study. We assessed the prevalence of 2HTN and analyzed the factors associated. RESULTS: 619/2090 patients (29.6%) had a 2HTN. The most frequent diagnoses of 2HTN in descending order were primary aldosteronism (n=339; 54.8%), renovascular hypertension (n=114; 18.4%), primary kidney disease (n=80; 12.9%), pheochromocytoma/functional paraganglioma (n=37; 5.9%), hypertension caused by drugs or substances (n=32; 6.0%), and other diagnoses (n=17; 2.7%). Patients with blood pressure <160/100 mm Hg did not have a lower prevalence of 2HTN regardless of the number of treatments. The prevalence of 2HTN was higher in the decade between 30 and 40 years of age than between 18 and 30 years of age (P=0.024). Female sex, hypokalemia, treatment with at least 2 medications, no familial history of hypertension, body mass index <25 kg/m², and diabetes were associated with a higher prevalence of 2HTN. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of 2HTN is high among young patients with hypertension (29.6% in our cohort), regardless of age and blood pressure level. All patients with hypertension under 40 years of age should be screened for secondary causes.

14.
Clin Case Rep ; 12(9): e9367, 2024 Sep.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39206067

ABSTRACT

Several electrocardiographic alterations due to hypokalemia have been described, but the electrocardiographic presentation meeting criteria for occlusion of the left main coronary artery is very rare. We describe a case of hypokalemia simulating it.

15.
BMC Nephrol ; 25(1): 282, 2024 Aug 30.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39215244

ABSTRACT

This article provides a comprehensive overview of electrolyte and water homeostasis in pediatric patients, focusing on some of the common serum electrolyte abnormalities encountered in clinical practice. Understanding pathophysiology, taking a detailed history, performing comprehensive physical examinations, and ordering basic laboratory investigations are essential for the timely proper management of these conditions. We will discuss the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and treatment strategies for each electrolyte disorder. This article aims to enhance the clinical approach to pediatric patients with electrolyte imbalance-related emergencies, ultimately improving patient outcomes.Trial registration This manuscript does not include a clinical trial; instead, it provides an updated review of literature.


Subject(s)
Emergencies , Water-Electrolyte Imbalance , Humans , Water-Electrolyte Imbalance/therapy , Child , Hyponatremia/therapy , Hyponatremia/etiology , Hyponatremia/diagnosis , Hypokalemia/therapy , Hypokalemia/diagnosis , Hypokalemia/blood , Hypokalemia/etiology , Hyperkalemia/therapy , Hyperkalemia/diagnosis , Hyperkalemia/blood , Hyperkalemia/etiology , Hypernatremia/therapy , Hypernatremia/diagnosis , Hypernatremia/etiology , Hypernatremia/physiopathology , Hypercalcemia/therapy , Hypercalcemia/blood , Hypercalcemia/diagnosis , Hypercalcemia/etiology , Hypocalcemia/diagnosis , Hypocalcemia/etiology , Hypocalcemia/therapy , Electrolytes/blood , Acid-Base Imbalance/diagnosis , Acid-Base Imbalance/therapy , Acid-Base Imbalance/physiopathology , Water-Electrolyte Balance/physiology , Acidosis/diagnosis , Acidosis/blood , Acidosis/therapy
16.
Cureus ; 16(7): e65489, 2024 Jul.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39188452

ABSTRACT

Dengue fever is a viral hemorrhagic fever mainly transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes and is especially prevalent in equatorial regions. The presentation of dengue fever can range from mild symptoms, such as fever and body aches, to severe symptoms, such as hemorrhagic bleeding and shock. Although it is a non-neurotropic virus, it rarely manifests as a neurological abnormality. Previous data suggests that the incidence of electrolyte disturbance is increasing in patients with dengue. Here, we have described a case of dengue fever with hypokalemia and renal glycosuria. Studies show that the probable mechanism of developing hypokalemia is increased insulin and catecholamine, but it is still not well-established. We propose a mechanism that can explain both hypokalemia and renal glycosuria in our case.

17.
Cureus ; 16(7): e65309, 2024 Jul.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39188503

ABSTRACT

Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP) is a rare disorder characterized by muscle paralysis, thyrotoxicosis, and hypokalemia. It commonly manifests as paralysis of both proximal and distal upper and lower limbs, and if left untreated, may progress to respiratory failure or cardiac arrhythmias. It is most common in Asian males and is frequently precipitated by strenuous exercise, high carbohydrate diet, stress, corticosteroid therapy, or alcohol. Early diagnosis of TPP is crucial as the condition may be reversible with oral or IV potassium replacement therapy, and management of the underlying hyperthyroidism. We describe a Samoan man in his 30s who presented with acute onset lower extremity paralysis. Laboratory investigations revealed low serum potassium of 2.2 mEq/L (reference range 3.5-5.0 mEq/L) and thyrotoxicosis with a low (thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) of <0.07 uIU/mL (reference range 0.27-4.20 uIU/mL) and an elevated free T4 of 5.4 ng/dL (reference range 0.9-2.1 ng/dL). He was treated with both oral and IV potassium chloride as well as propranolol and regained full strength in his extremities. While rare, TPP is a reversible complication of thyrotoxicosis and a high index of suspicion in clinical practice is essential to prevent adverse outcomes.

18.
Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) ; 15: 1411317, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39170739

ABSTRACT

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common life-threatening genetic disease in the United States and among people of European descent. Despite the widespread distribution of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) along kidney tubules, specific renal phenotypes attributable to CF have not been well documented. Recent studies have demonstrated the downregulation of the apical Cl-/HCO3 - exchanger pendrin (Slc26a4) in kidney B-intercalated cells of CF mouse models. These studies have shown that kidneys of both mice and humans with CF have an impaired ability to excrete excess HCO3 -, thus developing metabolic alkalosis when subjected to excess HCO3 - intake. The purpose of this minireview is to discuss the latest advances on the role of pendrin as a molecule with dual critical roles in acid base regulation and systemic vascular volume homeostasis, specifically in CF. Given the immense prevalence of vascular volume depletion, which is primarily precipitated via enhanced chloride loss through perspiration, we suggest that the dominant presentation of metabolic alkalosis in CF is due to the impaired function of pendrin, which plays a critical role in systemic vascular volume and acid base homeostasis.


Subject(s)
Alkalosis , Bicarbonates , Cystic Fibrosis , Sulfate Transporters , Humans , Cystic Fibrosis/metabolism , Cystic Fibrosis/pathology , Cystic Fibrosis/complications , Alkalosis/metabolism , Alkalosis/etiology , Bicarbonates/metabolism , Animals , Sulfate Transporters/metabolism , Sulfate Transporters/genetics , Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator/metabolism , Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator/genetics , Mice
19.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39109398

ABSTRACT

Elderly patients are prone to develop hyper- or hypokalemia, since they are susceptible to drugs or diets that affect the urinary or fecal potassium (K+) excretion. In aging mouse kidneys, in addition to glomerulosclerosis, proximal tubular atrophy, and atherosclerosis in renal arterioles, there was diffuse tubulointerstitial fibrosis with a number of inflammatory leukocytes infiltrating into the cortical interstitium. Since these pathological features greatly influence renal K+ handling, slowing the progression of kidney aging would fundamentally reduce the risk of developing hyper- or hypokalemia. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated the overexpression of K+ channels (Kv1.3) in leukocytes within the cortical interstitium, which was strongly associated with "chronic inflammation" in aging kidneys and the subsequent progression of renal fibrosis. In our basic studies, antihypertensive drugs (benidipine, nifedipine, verapamil, diltiazem) and anticholesterol drugs (lovastatin, simvastatin, pravastatin) strongly suppressed the leukocyte Kv1.3 channels and thus exerted anti-inflammatory effects. Given such pharmacological properties of these drugs, they may also be useful in slowing the progression of tubulointerstitial fibrosis in aging kidneys and reducing the risk of hyper- or hypokalemia in elderly patients.

20.
Cureus ; 16(7): e63862, 2024 Jul.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39100050

ABSTRACT

Antineoplastic agents are often associated with a wide range of side effects, caused by either direct toxicity or indirect through their metabolism. Ifosfamide is a cytotoxic, antineoplastic medication that is known to cause a direct tubular injury with an associated normal anion gap metabolic acidosis due to type 1 or type 2 renal tubular acidosis (RTA). The manifestations and approach to its diagnosis have been well established. However, we present a case in which a patient presented with acute symptomatic hypokalemia in the setting of ongoing ifosfamide use for metastatic osteosarcoma but without the typical laboratory findings. The clinical- and laboratory-driven diagnosis of suspected type 3 renal tubular acidosis involving proximal and distal segments is suggested by this case report.

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