Management of Hypokalemic periodic paralysis in pregnancy: Anesthetic considerations for a 34 -week gestation patient

Authors: Pon Sushma, Karthik Krishnamoorthy

DOI: 10.18231/j.ijca.10167.1759905020

Keywords: Anesthetics, Cesarean Section ,Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis, Muscle Weakness, Sodium Channels

Abstract: Hypokalemic periodic paralysis (HypoPP) is a rare autosomal disorder characterized by episodic hypokalemia leading to acute muscle weakness, resulting from dysfunctional calcium and sodium channels. The weakness may be precipitated by various factors like physical exertion, infection, pregnancy, carbohydrate overload and thyroid abnormalities. Perioperative anesthetic management of such patients present unique challenges. We present a successful anesthetic management of a parturient who underwent emergency cesarean section with a diagnosis of HypoPP complicated with premature rupture of membranes. Ensuring the health and safety of both the mother and fetus requires meticulous anesthetic planning during delivery to optimize outcome as it is complicated due to the condition's impact on the motor system, cardiac function and potential respiratory involvement.