Journal List > J Korean Soc Endocrinol > v.20(2) > 1063777

Hong, Han, Hwang, Kim, Shim, and Kim: A Case of Licorice Induced Hypokalemic Paralysis with Rhabdomyolysis

Abstract

Prolonged ingestion of licorice can cause hypermineralocorticoidism, with sodium retention, potassium loss and hypertension. Nevertheless, its initial presentation with a very severe degree of hypokalemic paralysis and rhabdomyolysis are exceedingly rare. We describe a patient who experienced hypokalemic paralysis and rhabdomyolysis after licorice ingestion. The patient's initial blood pressure was 160/80 mmHg. The major biochemical abnormalities included; hypokalemia (K+ 1.3 mEq/L), metabolic alkalosis, with a pH of 7.64, and urine myoglobin > 3000 ng/mL. The plasma rennin activity and aldosterone level were suppressed. The 24 hour urine cortisol concentration was normal. The patients, over a 1 month period, had ingested 500 g of licorice boiled in water. After quitting the licorice, the hypokalemia and muscle paralysis gradually improved and blood pressure returned to normal.

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