Rhabdomyolysis occurs when skeletal muscles are damaged and release myoglobin into the bloodstream. Myoglobin is an iron-containing pigment that can cause severe damage to the kidneys.
Rhabdomyolysis results from any condition that causes significant muscle damage. These include:
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Factors that may increase the risk of muscle damage include:
The most common symptoms include:
Other symptoms include:
In severe cases, rhabdomyolysis may result in:
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Tests may include:
Treatment may include:
Giving large amounts of fluid is the main treatment. Fluids are usually given directly into a vein by an IV. Hydration helps to quickly flush myoglobin out of the kidneys, in order to restore their function.
Medication may include:
Dialysis is a procedure that uses an artificial kidney machine to filter blood. The clean blood is then returned to your body.
RESOURCES:
National Institute of Health, US National Library of Medicine
http://www.nlm.nih.gov
National Kidney Foundation
http://www.nkfi.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Health Canada
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/index_e.html
The Kidney Foundation of Canada: British Columbia Branch
http://www.kidney.bc.ca/
References:
National Institute of Health website. Available at: http://www.nih.gov/ .
Pathogenesis and Management of Rhabdomyolysis. Hahnemann University School of Medicine; 1998.
US National Library of Medicine website. Available at: http://www.nlm.nih.gov .
Last reviewed November 2008 by John C. Keel, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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