What is rhabdomyolysis?

• A. A mild muscle strain with no complications
• B. The breakdown of muscle tissue releasing contents into the blood, potentially causing kidney damage
• C. A condition of excessive sweating
• D. An inflammatory joint disease

Answer: (B)

Rhabdomyolysis is rapid breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue with release of intracellular contents into the bloodstream, especially myoglobin, which can overwhelm the kidneys and cause acute kidney injury. This condition often follows severe muscle injury, intense exercise, drug or toxin exposure, or dehydration. Patients may have severe muscle pain and weakness, swelling, and dark urine from myoglobinuria. Lab findings typically show a markedly elevated creatine kinase and myoglobin in the urine. Management centers on preventing kidney damage with aggressive IV fluids, monitoring and correcting electrolyte abnormalities (hyperkalemia is a concern), and treating the underlying cause.