POSSIBLE NORMOKALEMIC VARIANT OF HYPERKALEMIC PERIODIC PARALYSIS IN 2HORSES

Hyperkalemic periodic paralysis (HPP), characterized by intermittent e pisodes of muscle fasciculations, Profound muscle weakness, and hyperk alemia, has been described in Quarter Horses, Appaloosas, and Paints. In previous reports, the hallmark of this syndrome has been the develo pment of hyperkalemia during each episode. Two affected horses had epi sodes of paralysis without associated hyperkalemia, demonstrating that normokalemia during an episode otherwise consistent with HPP does not eliminate HPP as a diagnosis. This clinical presentation appeared to be a variant of HPP.