An unusual stroke mimic: A case report

Abstract

Hypokalaemic paralysis is a rare disorder characterized by rapid onset of symmetrical flaccid skeletal muscle weakness in the presence of reduced serum potassium levels. It is categorized as primary or secondary depending on the aetiology. Asymmetric or unilateral muscle weakness in hypokalaemic patients is a rare presentation. In patients with comorbid cardiovascular risk factors, this atypical manifestation can mimic acute stroke. Only a few of such cases have been reported in the literature. This report discusses the case of a 46-year-old hypertensive Ghanaian woman who presented to a District Hospital with sudden-onset right-sided flaccid weakness and a high blood pressure. Acute stroke was ruled out with computed tomography scan of the brain. Further laboratory evaluation demonstrated reduced serum potassium level, which was corrected with subsequent dramatic resolution of the muscle weakness.