Abstract Details

Title Pathophysiology, Diagnosis and Management of Primary Periodic Paralysis: Identification of Gaps in Knowledge and Competence Among Neurologists

Topic Neuromuscular and Clinical Neurophysiology (EMG)

Presentation(s) P10 - Poster Session 10 (5:30 PM-6:30 PM)

Poster/Presentation
Number 1-011

Objective The goal of this study was to obtain a better understanding of the precise gaps in knowledge and competence of neurologists regarding the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of PPP.

Background The two primary forms of PPP are hyperkalemic periodic paralysis (hyperkPP) and hypokalemic periodic paralysis (hypokPP). Because PPP is a rare condition, the knowledge and competency base among neurologists has not been established.

Design/Methods

A continuing medical education-certified clinical practice assessment survey consisting of 24 multiple-choice questions on knowledge, clinical preferences, and competence was made available to neurologists in the United States. The questions were based on clinical trials, guidelines, and expert faculty recommendations regarding the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of PPP. The survey posted on the Medscape �鶹��ýӳ�� website and responses were collected from September 17, 2018 through October 30, 2018.

Results 97 neurologists completed the survey during the study period. On average, 60% of neurologists were not familiar with the mechanisms responsible for the presentation of either hyper or hypokPP. When asked about typical symptoms of PPP, 43% of neurologists answered incorrectly. Clinicians were challenged with the appropriate testing for PPP as indicated by 65% of neurologists incorrectly responding to questions on this topic. Less than 45% of neurologists correctly identified the FDA indication for dichlorphenamide, the appropriate management of acute weakness in hypokPP, or any of the case vignettes requiring treatment-related decision making. A subanalysis of the data did not indicate differences in knowledge or competence based on whether the neurologist was actively managing patients with PPP.

Conclusions This research yielded important insights into current clinical knowledge and competence gaps of neurologists regarding the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of PPP. The results indicated a need for comprehensive education across all areas of PPP.

Authors/Disclosures
PRESENTER	No disclosure on file
Thomas Finnegan, Jr., PhD (Medscape �鶹��ýӳ��)	Dr. Finnegan has nothing to disclose.
Pakinam Aboulsaoud	Pakinam Aboulsaoud has nothing to disclose.
Stephen C. Cannon, MD (UT Southwestern Medical Center)	No disclosure on file