Rhabdomyolysis and Acute Myopathies

ABSTRACT

The clinical syndrome of rhabdomyolysis is based on the 'classical' triad of myalgia, weakness and pigmenturia. For this lecture it will be defined as an acute such clinical syndrome with markedly elevated serum CK. The common general triggers of rhabdomyolysis are Exertion, heat & fever, fasting and dehydration, drugs and anesthesia and muscle trauma. The causes of rhabdomyolysis are divided to two general groups Genetic (metabolic myopathies and dystrophies) and acquired. The main complications of rhabdomyolysis are acute kidney failure and electrolyte imbalance. There is no consensus on treatment guidelines but the main therapeutic modes are high fluid load (if renal status allows) and alkalization of urine. Initial observations on rhabdomyolysis and COVID-19 will be discussed. The lecture will present the issues with clinical cases and their dilemmas to enhance the relevance between the theory and clinical practice.