Acute Flaccid Paralysis in an 11-Year-Old

Pediatr Emerg Care. 2021 Jun 1;37(6):e348-e350. doi: 10.1097/PEC.0000000000001662.

Abstract

Rhabdomyolysis is a syndrome caused by injury to skeletal muscle and subsequent release of intracellular components into the systemic circulation. We report a case of rhabdomyolysis causing acute paralysis from underlying and unrecognized hypothyroidism in an 11-year-old girl. To date, publications of rhabdomyolysis secondary to hypothyroidism have been limited, especially in the pediatric population. Early intervention with intravenous fluids and levothyroxine led to resolution of our patient's symptoms and is overall important in preventing the serious sequela of rhabdomyolysis including renal failure, cardiac dysrhythmias, compartment syndrome, and disseminated intravascular coagulation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acute Kidney Injury*
  • Central Nervous System Viral Diseases
  • Child
  • Compartment Syndromes*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Muscle, Skeletal
  • Myelitis
  • Neuromuscular Diseases
  • Paralysis / etiology
  • Rhabdomyolysis* / diagnosis
  • Rhabdomyolysis* / etiology

Supplementary concepts

  • acute flaccid myelitis