Assessing acquired rhabdomyolysis in adults

Abstract

The presentation of patients with rhabdomyolysis is variable and can range in severity from asymptomatic serum elevations of creatine kinase to life-threatening electrolyte disturbances and acute kidney injury. Clinicians must have a high suspicion for rhabdomyolysis and be familiar with the risk factors for developing this condition. This article focuses on prompt recognition and evidence-based approaches to diagnose and treat rhabdomyolysis.

Association of aspartate aminotransferase in statin-induced rhabdomyolysis

“…rhabdomyolysis is precipitated by skeletal muscle breakdown leading to the release of creatine kinase (CK) into the bloodstream. 1 in addition to CK elevation, the breakdown of skeletal muscles also leads to leakage of intracellular contents such as potassium, aldolase, phosphate, myo globin, lactate dehydrogenase (lDH) and aspartate aminotransferase (aSt). 1 The presentation of rhabdomyolysis is varied, with some individuals developing myalgia and muscle weakness while others are asymptomatic.…”

“…1 in addition to CK elevation, the breakdown of skeletal muscles also leads to leakage of intracellular contents such as potassium, aldolase, phosphate, myo globin, lactate dehydrogenase (lDH) and aspartate aminotransferase (aSt). 1 The presentation of rhabdomyolysis is varied, with some individuals developing myalgia and muscle weakness while others are asymptomatic. 2 if untreated, patients may progress to acute kidney injury (aKi), com partment syndrome and eventual demise.…”

“…2 if untreated, patients may progress to acute kidney injury (aKi), com partment syndrome and eventual demise. 1,2 The risk of rhabdomyolysis in the general popu lation is further elevated as more patients are placed on statins to control cardiovascular dis ease risk factors. 3 Statininduced rhabdomyolysis, resulting in hospital admission, is a concern and adds to healthcare costs.…”

“…Given the potential for poor outcomes with delayed treatment in patients with rhabdomyolysis, 1 it is important for clinicians to stratify patients based on their risk of complications. Biomarkers, such as CK, that directly correlate with the degree of muscle injury, have been studied.…”

“…Biomarkers, such as CK, that directly correlate with the degree of muscle injury, have been studied. 1,2 mcmahon et al showed that patients with high serum CK (>40,000 iU/l) are at high risk for aKi, and early hydration is vital to prevent complications. 5 However, CK levels alone are not sufficiently predictive to stratify risk.…”