Rhabdomyolysis
What is Rhabdomyolysis?
Rhabdomyolysis is a breakdown of muscle fibers, releasing fiber materials into circulation. Some of the material (myoglobin) can be toxic to the kidney and can result in kidney damage. Symptoms include muscle tenderness, stiffness, or weakness, and abnormal urine color.Who gets Rhabdomyolysis?
Anyone can get rhabdomyolysis. There are many causes, both traumatic and nontraumatic. Traumatic causes include electrical injury, burns, and heatstroke. Nontraumatic causes include excessive exercise, some medications, other medical disorders, and infections.How is Rhabdomyolysis diagnosed?
After taking the patient's history, a physician may perform an EMG, blood tests, and a urine test.How is Rhabdomyolysis treated?
Fluids are required to eliminate myoglobin from the kidneys to prevent further kidney damage.
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