Publication Date
Spring 4-19-2020
School
School of Health Sciences
Major
Biology
Keywords
Rhabdomyolysis, Skeletal Muscle, Pathophysiology, Rapid Muscle Breakdown, Complications, Molecular Biology
Disciplines
Amino Acids, Peptides, and Proteins | Biological Factors | Cells | Musculoskeletal Diseases | Musculoskeletal System
Recommended Citation
Holchin, Jamie, "A Closer Look at Muscle Breakdown: An Overview of the Causes, Complications, and Diagnostics of Rhabdomyolysis" (2020). Senior Honors Theses. 977.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/honors/977
Abstract
Rhabdomyolysis is the rapid breakdown of myocytes in skeletal muscle. This condition can be triggered by a variety of things including crush injury, drugs, prolonged exercise, and venom. Although the causes can vary, the general pathophysiology of rhabdomyolysis is similar. Increased intracellular calcium ion levels instigate the breakdown of cellular and certain organelle membranes of muscle cells. Reactive oxygen species form, ATP is depleted, and the sarcoplasmic reticulum, which regulates muscle contraction, is also damaged. Necrosis ensues, leading to toxic intracellular components spreading throughout the body. Rhabdomyolysis can then lead to several complications including acute renal injury and heart arrhythmias, and is characterized by dark-colored urine, pain, and weakness. Diagnostic tests for certain chemicals, like myoglobin, help diagnose rhabdomyolysis.
Included in
Amino Acids, Peptides, and Proteins Commons, Biological Factors Commons, Cells Commons, Musculoskeletal Diseases Commons, Musculoskeletal System Commons
