The management and diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis-induced acute kidney injury: a case study

Abstract

Rhabdomyolysis is characterised by a rapid dissolution of damaged or injured skeletal muscle that can be the result of a multitude of mechanisms. It can range in severity from mild to severe, leading to multi-organ failure and death. Rhabdomyolysis causes muscular cellular breakdown, which can cause fatal electrolyte imbalances and metabolic acidosis, as myoglobin, creatine phosphokinase, lactate dehydrogenase and other electrolytes move into the circulation; acute kidney injury can follow as a severe complication. This article reflects on the case of a person who was diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury after a fall at home. Understanding the underpinning mechanism of rhabdomyolysis and the associated severity of symptoms may improve early diagnosis and treatment initiation.