Glossary

Author: Glossary

  • Immunological paralysis

    The inability to form antibodies after exposure to large doses of an antigen.  

  • Hypokalemic periodic paralysis

    A form of periodic paralysis with onset usually before adulthood. An attack typically comes on during sleep, after strenuous exercise during the day. The weakness may be so pronounced as to prevent the patient from being able to call for help. The attack may last from several hours to a day or more. The diagnosis…

  • Hyperkalemic paralysis

    A rare form of periodic paralysis characterized by brief (1- to 2-hr) attacks of limb weakness. Respiratory muscles are involved in some cases. “Hyperkalemic” is misleading because the potassium levels may be normal. But, because an attack is precipitated by the administration of potassium, this form of paralysis is better termed “potassium-sensitive periodic paralysis.”  

  • Glossolabial paralysis

    Paralysis of the tongue and lips occurring in bulbar paralysis.  

  • Facial paralysis

    Paralysis of the facial or the trigeminal nerve; Bell’s palsy.  

  • Diphtheritic paralysis

    Paralysis of the muscles of the palate, eyes, limbs, diaphragm, and intercostal muscles as a complication of diphtheria. It is caused by a bacterial toxin.  

  • Decubitus paralysis

    Paralysis caused by compression of a nerve after lying on it (e.g., in sleep or a coma).  

  • Crutch paralysis

    Paralysis due to pressure on nerves in the axilla caused by improper use of a crutch. Arm paralysis caused by pressure from a crutch on the nerves in the armpit.  

  • Crossed paralysis

    Paralysis affecting muscles of one side of the face and those in the limbs on the opposite side of the body. Paralysis of one arm and leg on the same side of the body, accompanied by paralysis of the face on the opposite side.  

  • Conjugate paralysis

    Paralysis of the conjugate movement of the eyes in all directions even though the fixation axis remains parallel.