Condition where damaged skeletal striated muscle breaks down rapidly, which can lead to kidney failure. Caused by trauma, strenuous exercise, and statin or fibrate drugs.Encyclopedia Entry for Rhabdomyolysis :Rhabdomyolysis. When muscle is damaged, a protein called myoglobin is released into the bloodstream. It is then filtered out of the body by the kidneys. Myoglobin breaks down into substances that can damage kidney cells. Rhabdomyolysis may be caused by injury or any other condition that damages skeletal muscle. Problems that may lead to this disease include: Trauma or crush injuries Use of drugs such as cocaine , amphetamines, statins, heroin , or PCP Genetic muscle diseases Extremes of body temperature Ischemia or death of muscle tissue Low phosphate levels Seizures or muscle tremors Severe exertion, such as marathon running or calisthenics Lengthy surgical procedures Severe dehydration.Symptoms may include: Dark, red, or cola-colored urine Decreased urine output General weakness Muscle stiffness or aching ( myalgia ) Muscle tenderness Weakness of the affected muscles Other symptoms that may occur with this disease: Fatigue Joint pain Seizures Weight gain (unintentional).A physical exam will show tender or damaged skeletal muscles. The following tests may be done: Creatine kinase (CK) level Serum calcium Serum myoglobin Serum potassium Urinalysis Urine myoglobin test This disease may also affect the results of the following tests: CK isoenzymes Serum creatinine Urine creatinine.You will need to get fluids containing bicarbonate to help prevent kidney damage. You may need to get fluids through a vein (IV). Some people may need kidney dialysis. Your health care provider may prescribe medicines including diuretics and bicarbonate (if there is enough urine output). Hyperkalemia and low blood calcium levels (hypocalcemia) should be treated right away. Kidney failure should also be treated.The outcome depends on the amount of kidney damage. Acute kidney failure occurs in many people. Getting treated soon after rhabdomyolysis will reduce the risk of permanent kidney damage. People with milder cases may return to their normal activities within a few weeks to a month. However, some people continue to have problems with fatigue and muscle pain.Complications may include: Acute tubular necrosis Acute renal failure Harmful chemical imbalances in the blood Shock (low blood pressure).Call your provider if you have symptoms of rhabdomyolysis.Rhabdomyolysis can be avoided by: Drinking plenty of fluids after strenuous exercise. Removing extra clothes and immersing the body in cold water in case of heat stroke.Male urinary system Male urinary system.O'Connor FG, Deuster PA. Rhabdomyolysis.