Background. Hypokalemic periodic paralysis is a rare neuromuscular disorder characterized by transient episodes of flaccid paralysis due to a defect in muscle ion channels. Most cases are hereditary, but it can be acquired. We present a case of acquired hypokalemic periodic paralysis associated with hyperthyroidism and renal tubular acidosis. Clinical Case. A 38-year-old female with a history of Graves’ disease presented to the emergency department with generalized weakness and associated nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Examination was significant for diffuse weakness in all extremities. Labs showed hypokalemia, hyperthyroidism, and nonanion gap metabolic acidosis with a positive urine anion gap. She was treated for hypokalemic periodic paralysis and renal tubular acidosis. Potassium replacement, propranolol, methimazole, and sodium bicarbonate were initiated. Her potassium gradually corrected with resolution of her symptoms. Further investigation revealed a history of dry eyes, dry mouth, and recurrent dental carries. She had positive ANA, SS-A, and SS-B antibodies. She was diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome, which may have been associated with her Graves’ disease and thus contributed to both her RTA and hyperthyroidism. Conclusion. Early recognition and treatment of thyrotoxic periodic paralysis are important to prevent cardiac complications. Management includes potassium replacement with careful monitoring to prevent rebound hyperkalemia. The definitive treatment is to achieve euthyroid status.

Background: Cardiac troponin (cTn) can also be elevated in patients with non-cardiac illnesses. The utility of elevated cTn in patients with acute gastrointestinal bleeding (AGIB) is unclear. Methods: We retrospectively identified all patients admitted with AGIB who had cTn ordered. We assessed the prevalence, predictors and mortality. Results: A total of 172 patients with AGIB were included in the study, of whom 17% had abnormal cTn. Predictors of elevated cTn were advanced age, lower BMI, coronary artery disease and chronic kidney disease. The abnormal cTn group had more cardiac consultation and procedures and longer length of stay. However, there was no difference in mortality between the two groups. Conclusion: Elevated cTn in patients with AGIB was associated with more cardiology consultation and downstream cardiac testing, greater delay to endoscopic evaluation and longer length of stay, without significantly affecting the mortality.

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