Severe hypokalemia and rhabdomyolysis caused by Conn syndrome

Abstract

Hypokalemia is a common electrolyte abnormality. Generally being asymptomatic, muscular fatigue, paresis and arrhythmia can be seen as the severity of hypokalemia increases. Severe rhabdomyolysis and neuromuscular findings can be seen in severe hypokalemia cases. Presence of hypokalemia can be a precursor of secondary hypertension in hypertensive patients, and also should bring hyperaldosteronism into consideration. Mild hypokalemia is usually seen in primary hyperaldosteronism. However, deficient potassium levels are also seen in some cases. We have shared the case of a hypertensive patient, who presented to the emergency department with findings of rhabdomyolysis and neuromuscular findings secondary to severe hypokalemia. The potassium level of our patient was 1.3 mmol, and it was one of the lowest potassium levels reported up to today.