HYPERKALEMIC PERIODIC PARALYSIS - THE SYNDROME

Hyperkalemic periodic paralysis is a genetic abnormality that causes p eriodic episodes of increased levels of potassium in the blood associa ted with muscle weakness. Attacks can be successfully treated with a c ombination of drugs, fluids, and electrolytes. Hyperkalemic periodic p aralysis can be identified prior to an attack by a genetic test availa ble at the University of California, Davis. Once identified, it can be treated in a preventive manner with acetazolamide and/or diet managem ent.