Diagnosis

The common scenarios that are associated with rhabdomyolysis will be evident from the patient’s history or presentation.

In immobilisation, crush injury and illicit drug use consideration of the diagnosis is obvious.

Rhabdomyolysis must also be considered when there is history of recent medication changes, especially statins.

Remember that in non-traumatic rhabdomyolysis patients may only demonstrate muscle weakness, tenderness or stiffness.

Paralysis and severe weakness may suggest very extensive myonecrosis or coexistent potassium disturbances that can occur as renal function is impaired.

Learning Bite

Do not dismiss as dehydration a patient who complains of ‘darker then normal’ urine. Obtain a myoglobin dipstick.