Hypokalaemia and the thyroid—is there a link?

A previously healthy 40-year-old male was admitted to investigate the second episode of an acute flaccid paralysis that occurred within 3 months. Both began suddenly in the early morning as generalized weakness evolving to paralysis within 2 h, and sparing respiratory and facial muscles. The paralysis was painless, and there was no disturbance of consciousness. Vital signs, including heart rate, were within normal limits. Physical examination revealed flaccidity in both legs, with reduced deep tendon reflexes. Laboratory test results at admission are shown in Table 1. He was started on intravenous potassium, with complete recovery of muscle strength in few hours.