Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP) is a rare muscular disorder, characterized by muscle weakness and hypokalemia triggered by thyrotoxicosis. In Asian populations, 2% of patients with thyrotoxicosis are affected, compared to only 0.1–0.2% of non-Asians. The vast majority of patients are male. Muscle weakness ranges in severity from very mild to life-threatening, due to respiratory compromise. We present a case of a previously healthy 39-year-old Hispanic male who presented with sudden quadriparesis and quickly recovered after being treated for hypokalemia and thyrotoxicosis. TPP, although unusual, is important to recognize as it is a potentially fatal condition that requires close monitoring and is readily reversible with appropriate therapy. Any cause of thyroid hormone excess can cause TPP, with Graves’ disease being the most common etiology. Acute treatment includes potassium repletion, while long-term management focuses on determining and treating the cause of thyrotoxicosis, since maintaining a euthyroid state will prevent further episodes of TPP.
Isolated cortical vein thrombosis (ICVT) is a rare entity and accounts for only 6.3% of cerebral venous and sinus thrombosis. ICVT is an uncommon cause of seizures in young adults. We present a 27-year-old man with no medical history who presented with dizziness, loss of consciousness and a seizure-like episode. The patient was found to have an elevated D-dimer and brain imaging revealed ICVT. The patient was started on anticoagulation and antiseizure medications. A high index of suspicion for uncommon aetiologies for new-onset seizure, especially in the young, is key to accurate diagnosis of ICVT. Evaluation and work-up should include detailed physical examination, along with appropriate brain imaging and testing for other conditions that predispose venous thrombosis. In the setting of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, testing for COVID-19 may also be warranted. Rapid diagnosis and full anticoagulation can help avoid debilitating complications and long-term sequelae.
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