Disease overview

Hypokalemic periodic paralysis is a disorder caused by an imbalance between intracellular and extracellular potassium. This imbalance affects mainly the functioning of the nervous and the musculoskeletal systems. Consequently, there is profound muscle weakness associated with this condition.

Gene name

WNK4

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive

Signs and symptoms

The clinical signs associated with hypokalemic periodic paralysis are weakness, ataxia, anorexia, and ventroflexion of the neck or a "looking down" posture. Occassionally, muscle pain is observed.

How is it diagnosed

Diagnosis is made through urinalysis and a blood test.

Breeds at higher risk

, Burmese-derived

Citations

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23285264/

Disclaimer

Disease diagnosis and treatment should always be performed by a veterinarian. The following information is for educational purposes only.