Citation

Torka P, Sharma R, Sood R. Am. J. Emerg. Med. 2009; 27(5): 625.e1-6253.

Affiliation

Department of Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi-110029, India.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.ajem.2008.08.015

PMID

19497472

Abstract

Acute flaccid paralysis with its wide repertoire of causes presents a challenge to the clinician. We present a case of barium carbonate poisoning, a rare yet easily treatable cause of acute quadriparesis. Barium acts by redistribution of potassium from the extra- to intravascular compartment causing hypokalemia. Early recognition and prompt potassium supplementation under cardiac monitoring yield gratifying results.

Language: en