Abstract |
Hypokalemia is a potentially life-threatening biochemical abnormality in patients with hypercalcemia. We studied a large group of patients with hypercalcemia to determine the prevalence of hypokalemia. One hundred three patients with normal renal function and no history of taking potassium-depleting drugs comprise the substance of this study. Thirty three of 103 patients (32%) were hypokalemic. A higher prevalence (52.3%) was found in patients with hypercalcemia associated with malignant disease than in those with primary hyperparathyroidism (16.9%). In addition, the degree and frequency of hypokalemia were greatest at the higher serum calcium levels. The presence of hypokalemia must be considered when treating severe hypercalcemia; otherwise, vigorous use of diuretics may result in profound hypokalemia and tachyrhythmias.
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Authors | K A Aldinger, N A Samaan |
Journal | Annals of internal medicine
(Ann Intern Med)
Vol. 87
Issue 5
Pg. 571-3
(Nov 1977)
ISSN: 0003-4819 [Print] United States |
PMID | 921086
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.)
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Chemical References |
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Topics |
- Arrhythmias, Cardiac
(etiology)
- Diuretics
(adverse effects)
- Humans
- Hypercalcemia
(complications, drug therapy)
- Hyperparathyroidism
(complications)
- Hypokalemia
(complications)
- Neoplasms
(complications)
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