Asymptomatic HyperCKemia: A Diagnostic Trap

Cureus. 2021 Jan 19;13(1):e12791. doi: 10.7759/cureus.12791.

Abstract

Elevated creatine kinase (CK) levels are the most sensitive indicator of muscle injury. Levels >5000 U/L warns physicians to initiate aggressive hydration and prevent renal failure. We present a rare case of asymptomatic hyperCkemia with levels >80 times the upper limit of normal (ULN), refractory to fluid resuscitation. Our patient was found to have elevated macroenzymes- macroCkemia, causing decreased clearance of CK. The objective of this case report is to bring to attention a rare and benign cause of CK elevation which can lead to diagnostic and therapeutic errors.

Keywords: ck electrophoresis; creatine kinase; hyperckemia; macrockemia; macroenzyme.

Publication types

  • Case Reports