Rhabdomyolysis
Information about rhabdomyolysis
What is rhabdomyolysis?
Rhabdomyolysis is a condition that includes a set of symptoms caused by a destruction of the muscle cells, which results in the release of myoglobin in the urine.
Causes
Rhabdomyolysis is due to hereditary and genetic or acquired causes. Generally, the causes are:
- Muscle injury
- Burns
- Inadequate tissue perfusion
- Toxins
- Thermal shock
- Metabolic disorders
- Physical abuse
- Prolonged coma or bed rest
- Muscle spasms
- Intense physical exercise
- Drugs
- Alcohol Poisoning
- Low magnesium levels in blood
- Medications for psychiatric disorders, HIV and Parkinson’s disease
- Myopathies
- Hypothyroidism
Symptoms
Rhabdomyolysis is manifested by a number of symptoms including:
- Muscle aches
- Feeling of weakness
- Red urine
- Fever
- Tachycardia
- Nausea and dizziness
- Fatigue
- Kidney failure (as a complication)
Diagnosis
The clinical picture and the patient’s symptoms lead a doctor to suspect the above disease. Blood and urine tests are required for the diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis.
Rhabdomyolysis treatment
Treating rhabdomyolysis requires to cope with electrolyte disorders. Dialysis may be required in cases of kidney failure. In general, treatment depends on the cause and the severity of the disease. If there is an underlying disorder, it needs to be treated effectively. If a drug is suspected, it should be stopped immediately and the patient should be hydrated. In that case, hospitalisation is advised. Electrolytes and renal function should be monitored
Complications of rhabdomyolysis
The most serious complications of rhabdomyolysis are kidney failure and disturbances in the electrolyte balance of the blood (hyperphosphatemia/ hyperkalemia).
Prevention of rhabdomyolysis
Immediate treatment can help prevent rhabdomyolysis. The sooner treated, the less likely to develop complications.
What specialty
The doctors to treat rhabdomyolysis are the Nephrologist
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