Familial periodic paralyses are a group of inherited neurological disorders caused by mutations in genes that regulate sodium and calcium channels in nerve cells. They are characterized by episodes in which the affected muscles become slack, weak, and unable to contract. Between attacks, the affected muscles usually work as normal.
The two most common types of periodic paralyses are:
Hypokalemic periodic paralysis is characterized by a fall in potassium levels in the blood. In individuals with this mutation attacks
often begin in adolescence and are triggered by strenuous exercise or high carbohydrate meals. Weakness may be mild and limited
to certain muscle groups, or more severe and affect the arms and legs. Attacks may last for a few hours or persist for several
days. Some patients may develop chronic muscle weakness later in life.
Hyperkalemic periodic paralysis is characterized by a rise in potassium levels in the blood. Attacks often begin in infancy or early childhood
and are precipitated by rest after exercise or by fasting. Attacks are usually shorter, more frequent, and less severe than
the hypokalemic form. Muscle spasms are common.
Muscular Dystrophy Association 3300 East Sunrise Drive Tucson, AZ 85718-3208 mda@mdausa.org http://www.mda.org Tel: 520-529-2000 800-344-4863 Fax: 520-529-5300 |
National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) P.O. Box 1968 (55 Kenosia Avenue) Danbury, CT 06813-1968 orphan@rarediseases.org http://www.rarediseases.org Tel: 203-744-0100 Voice Mail 800-999-NORD (6673) Fax: 203-798-2291 |
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Last updated February 14, 2007