Predictation of Weakness from Hypokalemia in Thyrotoxicosis Pateints

Abstract

Weakness in thyrotoxicosis patients is common; and the main underlying cause is hypokalemia. Respiratory failure was reported in some cases. Therefore, it is essential for physicians to be aware of the condition so as to provide propoer treatment and care for the cases. The objective of this study was to identify predictive factors relating to weakness resulting from hypokalemia. It was conducted as a retrospective study at Nongkhai hospital during the period from January 2008 to December 2013. A total of 375 patient records of thyrotoxicosis cases were retrieved and categorized into 2 groups: (1) patients with weakness (30 cases) and (2) patients without weakness (345 cases). Demographic, clinical and laboratory characteristics were analyzed and compared between the 2 groups using Chisquare and binary logistic regression tests with 95% confident level. It was found that there were three factors for predicting weakness in thyrotoxicosis patients, which were thyroid gland enlargement, lid lag and single status; and the odd ratio was 4.58, 3.83 and 4.60 respectively.