Rhabdomyolysis (Severe Muscle Breakdown)
Description
A breakdown of the muscle cells. It occurs after vigorous exercise or seizures, and is associated with certain medication use. The most common is the use of the cholesterol lowering drugs named statins (atotvastatin/Lipitor, lovastatin/Mevacor, simvastatin/Zocar etc.). It can result in the excretion of myoglobin and other toxins in the urine causing kidney failure.
Symptoms
Dark urine color, reddish urine, general weakness, muscle stiffness or aching (myalgia), muscle tenderness, weakness of the affected muscles.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis is made by finding an elevated creatinine kinase (CPK) in the blood. Other tests to identify the extent of damage will be done.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- UA
- EKG
Treatment
The main goal of therapy is to remove the situation that caused the disorder and to prevent kidney failure by forcing urine output. Treatment may include: large amounts of intravenous fluid, diuretics, and/ sodium bicarbonate. The body's blood chemistry will be followed and any deficiencies, especially potassium, will be repleted.
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