Diverse Factors
Rhabdomyolysis is the breakdown of muscle fibres resulting in the release of muscle fibre cell contents into the bloodstream.
Presentations in the emergency department (ED) range from the well patient with an asymptomatic elevation of creatine kinase (CK) to a life threatening, multi system problem with massive CK rise, electrolyte disturbance, acute renal failure and disseminated intravascular coagulation.
Rhabdomyolysis has many causes such as:
- Change in medication
- Drug abuse
- Overexertion
- Alcoholism
- Genetic disorders
- Heatstroke