Severe hypokalaemic paralysis and rhabdomyolysis due to ingestion of liquorice.
Chronic ingestion of liquorice induces a syndrome with findings similar to those in primary hyperaldosteronism. We describe a patient who, with a plasma K+ of 1.8 mmol/l, showed a paralysis and severe rhabdomyolysis after the habitual consumption of natural liquorice. Liquorice has become widely available as a flavouring agent in foods and drugs. It is important for physicians to keep liquorice consumption in mind as a cause for hypokalaemic paralysis and rhabdomyolysis.
van den Bosch
A E
AE
Department of Internal Medicine, Ikazia Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
van der Klooster
J M
JM
Zuidgeest
D M H
DM
Ouwendijk
R J Th
RJ
Dees
A
A
D002182:Candy; D005247:Feeding Behavior; D006034:Glycyrrhetinic Acid / Q000633:toxicity*; D006035:Glycyrrhiza / Q000737:chemistry / Q000633:toxicity*; D006801:Humans; D007008:Hypokalemia / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000503:physiopathology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011189:Potassium Chloride / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012206:Rhabdomyolysis / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000503:physiopathology; D013577:Syndrome
D011189:Potassium Chloride; D006034:Glycyrrhetinic Acid