A Runners Nightmare: Rhabdomyolysis strikes, Kidneys suffer: A Case Report

Abstract

Exercise Induced Rhabdomyolysis (EIR) refers to breakdown of striated myocytes and release of their contents into circulation after  prolonged intense physical activity. The presentation is variable from asymptomatic to symptoms like intense muscle pain, weakness and  dark tea-coloured urine. Potential complications like volume depletion, metabolic and electrolyte abnormalities, acute kidney injury (AKI),  multi organ failure and death can occur if early diagnosis and treatment is missed. A high index of suspicion is important to avoid this.  We report a case of EIR causing AKI in a 44-year-old male who presented with lower limb muscle pain for 5 days after running 70 km  marathon followed by symptoms of fluid overload requiring haemodialysis.