University of Florida Researchers Warns That COVID-19 Infections Can Lead To Rhabdomyolysis With Extremely Elevated Creatine Kinase Levels

COVID-19 News: As the world continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers are uncovering various ways in which the virus affects the human body. One alarming discovery is the potential link between COVID-19 infections and rhabdomyolysis, a condition characterized by the destruction of skeletal muscle cells and the release of myoglobin and creatine kinase (CK) into the bloodstream. Researchers at the University of Florida, USA, have raised a red flag, warning that COVID-19 infections can lead to rhabdomyolysis with extremely elevated CK levels, emphasizing the importance of early detection and management.


 
Understanding Rhabdomyolysis
Rhabdomyolysis is a rare but serious medical condition characterized by the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, leading to the release of intracellular components into the bloodstream. These components include myoglobin, CK, lactate dehydrogenase, and various proteins and electrolytes. Myoglobin, in particular, poses a significant risk as it can cause acute kidney injury (AKI) when it enters the renal tubules, making rhabdomyolysis a potentially life-threatening condition.
 
The causes of rhabdomyolysis are diverse and include trauma, exertion, genetic, endocrine, and autoimmune disorders, among others. Viral infections have also been identified as potential triggers of rhabdomyolysis, including the notorious SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. However, the exact mechanism through which viruses like COVID-19 induce rhabdomyolysis remains a subject of investigation.
 
COVID-19 and Rhabdomyolysis: A Troubling Association
The link between viral infections and rhabdomyolysis has long been recognized in the medical community. Many viruses can cause muscle pain and inflammation, making it challenging to distinguish between common viral symptoms and rhabdomyolysis. However, it is essential for healthcare professionals to remain vigilant, as early detection can be life-saving.
 
One virus that has garnered significant attention via studies and COVID-19 News reports in this regard is SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19.
 
Researchers at the University of Florida presented a compelling case of a male patient in his early thirties who had previously experienced rhabdomyolysis following an influenza infection. He later presented to the emergency department with COVID-19 infection, which ultimately led to rhabdomyolysis with CK levels that skyrocketed to an astonishing 1,650,000 U/L.
 
The patient's journey through this challenging medical ordeal serves as a stark reminder of the potential severity of COVID-19-related rhabdomyolysis. His symptoms included fever, muscle aches, and dark urine, which are typical signs of rhabdomyolysis. His initial CK levels were significantly elevated at 2910 U/L, indicating muscle damage. Despite being discharged after the COVID-19 diagnosis, the patient returned to the hospital due to worsening symptoms and deteriorating CK levels, which had reached over 40,000 U/L.
 
Treatment and Recovery
The patient's case was managed by admitting him to the hospital for intravenous fluids and close monitoring of kidney function. Remarkably, his CK levels continued to rise, peaking at an astonishing 1,615,500 U/L on the fourth day of admission. However, his creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels remained within normal limits throughout his hospital stay.
 
The primary focus of treatment for rhabdomyolysis is to address the underlying cause of muscle damage and prevent complications, especially acute kidney injury. In this case, aggressive hydration through intravenous fluids was the key to preventing kidney damage. The patient received high-flow IV fluids at rates of 400 cc/hour as recommended by nephrologists. As a result, his CK levels gradually decreased, and his urine output improved. By the time of discharge, his CK levels had dropped to 37,311 U/L, and he had fully recovered, avoiding the need for hemodialysis.
 
Genetic Testing and Long-Term Implications
Following his recovery, the patient underwent genetic testing to explore any underlying metabolic or mitochondrial myopathies. The results revealed a heterozygous mutation in the PGAM2 gene, which encodes the enzyme phosphoglycerate mutase. While a homozygous mutation of this gene is associated with glycogen storage disease type X, a condition characterized by exercise intolerance, elevated CK levels, and myoglobinuria, the patient did not exhibit symptoms of this disorder. Despite the genetic anomaly, he remained asymptomatic and was able to resume his normal activities and intense exercise routine.
 
Implications and Conclusion
The case presented by researchers highlights the alarming possibility of extremely elevated CK levels and rhabdomyolysis in COVID-19 patients. Viral infections, including COVID-19, can trigger this potentially life-threatening condition, underscoring the importance of early detection and management.
 
As the world continues to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare professionals must remain vigilant and consider rhabdomyolysis as a potential complication, especially in patients with muscle-related symptoms. Early intervention with intravenous fluids is crucial to prevent acute kidney injury and achieve a favorable outcome.
 
Moreover, this case also sheds light on the importance of genetic testing in understanding underlying predispositions to muscle-related conditions. While the patient's genetic anomaly did not manifest as a debilitating disorder, such investigations can provide valuable insights into individual health and guide future medical care.
 
In conclusion, the University of Florida researchers' warning about the potential for COVID-19-related rhabdomyolysis serves as a reminder of the complex and varied ways in which the virus can impact the human body. Continued research and vigilance within the medical community are essential to mitigate the risks associated with this devastating condition and improve patient outcomes.
 
The study findings were published in the journal: Cureus.
https://www.cureus.com/articles/188611-extremely-elevated-creatine-kinase-in-covid-19-associated-rhabdomyolysis#!/
 
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