USMLE Prep - Medical Reference Library

Rhabdomyolysis — Crush Injury, Hyperkalemia, and Renal Protection

System: Emergency Medicine • Reviewed: Sep 1, 2025 • Step 1Step 2Step 3

Synopsis:

Muscle breakdown with CK elevation causes electrolyte derangements and AKI. Treat with early, high-volume isotonic fluids, correct hyperkalemia, and consider urine alkalinization in select cases; avoid nephrotoxins and monitor urine output/CK trends.

Key Points

  • Confirm diagnosis early with highest-yield tests (e.g., MRV for CVST, CTA for mesenteric ischemia).
  • Dose-and-route precision for high-risk medications; monitor for adverse effects.
  • Explicit ICU criteria and consultation triggers.

Clinical Synopsis & Reasoning

Muscle breakdown with CK elevation causes electrolyte derangements and AKI. Treat with early, high-volume isotonic fluids, correct hyperkalemia, and consider urine alkalinization in select cases; avoid nephrotoxins and monitor urine output/CK trends.


Treatment Strategy & Disposition

Stabilize airway/breathing/circulation; initiate guideline-concordant first-line therapy; tailor escalation or de-escalation to clinical response and objective metrics; define clear disposition criteria (e.g., ICU triggers, ward acceptability, outpatient safety).


Epidemiology / Risk Factors

  • Risk varies by comorbidity and precipitating factors

Investigations

TestRole / RationaleTypical FindingsNotes
CBCAnemia/leukocytosisContext-specificTrend with therapy
BMPElectrolytes/renalDerangements commonRenal dosing
Condition-specific imagingSee topicDiagnostic hallmarkDo not delay when red flags present

Pharmacology

MedicationMechanismOnsetRole in TherapyLimitations
Normal salineCrystalloidImmediateInitial high-volume hydrationAvoid volume overload
Bicarbonate infusion (selected)AlkalinizationHoursConsider if severe acidosis/myoglobinuriaMonitor pH/K+
Insulin/dextrose ± albuterolShift K+MinutesHyperkalemia managementHypoglycemia risk

Prognosis / Complications

  • Outcome depends on timeliness of diagnosis and definitive therapy

Patient Education / Counseling

  • Explain red flags, adherence, and follow-up plan

References

  1. Authoritative guideline/review; see internal bibliography — Link