A Case of Hypokalemic Paralysis Provoked after Trigger Point Injection with Dexamethasone and Lidocaine

ABSTRACT

Acute hypokalemic paralysis is characterized by acute systemic weakness and low serum potassium. Trigger point injection (TPI) is frequently performed for myofacial pain relief with rare complications. 34-year-old male was admitted with quadriparesis after TPI with dexamethasone and lidocaine before 24 hours. Hypokalemia was found with compatible findings on nerve conduction studies and electromyography. Hypokalemia and weakness were fully recovered after potassium replacement. Steroid and lidocaine can provoke iatrogenic hypokalemic paralysis, therefore, TPI with these medications should be cautiously performed.