Similarity of Symptomatology of Premenstrual Syndrome and Toxaemia of Pregnancy and Their Response to Progesterone

Abstract

A case is described of chronic pyelonephritis in which urinary potassium loss resulting in periodic hypokalaemic paralysis dominated the clinical picture.It was estimated by balance data that there was a deficiency of about 1,500 mEq of potassium, amounting to 40% of the total normal body potassium.The differential diag- nosis betwen hypokalaemic paralysis of the familial type and that secondary to a renal defect is discussed.No explanation is given for the differential effects of chronic pyelonephritis on renal tubular function.Thanks are expressed to Dr. R. J. Porter, who first diagnosed the case and arranged transfer to Hammersmith Hospital for balance studies; and to Dr. A. G. Macgregor for the out-patient data.We are indebted to Dr. R. I. S. Bayliss for determination of plasma 17-hydroxycorticosteroids and to Dr. C. L. Cope for determination of compounds E and F in the urine.Mrs. Walwyn-Jones