Hyperkalaemic paralysis.
BACKGROUND
hyperkalaemic paralysis is a rare, treatable, and potentially fatal entity presenting with flaccid motor weakness.


METHODS
a patient with acute hyperkalaemic paralysis caused by erroneous oral potassium supplementation in the context of chronic renal failure. The clinical picture of quadriplegia was initially interpreted as spinal cord injury due to a pathological cervical fracture.


CONCLUSIONS
the diagnosis of hyperkalaemic paralysis requires a high index of suspicion. Instructions for over-the-counter supplements must be clear and concise to prevent life-threatening medication errors.
Muensterer
Oliver J
OJ
Department of Surgery, University of Munich, Lindwurmstrasse 4, 80337 Munich, Germany. oliver.muensterer@kk-i.med.uni-muenchen.de
D000368:Aged; D002574:Cervical Vertebrae / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006947:Hyperkalemia / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D007676:Kidney Failure, Chronic / Q000150:complications; D009101:Multiple Myeloma / Q000150:complications; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011188:Potassium / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011782:Quadriplegia / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D011859:Radiography; D012646:Self Administration; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging
D004366:Nonprescription Drugs; D011188:Potassium