Increased liver markers in rhabdomyolysis in a young recruit from the field trip

Ugeskr Laeger. 2023 Mar 6;185(10):V11220736.
[Article in Danish]

Abstract

We present a case report of rhabdomyolysis after intense physical activity. Tests showed increased creatine kinase compatible with rhabdomyolysis. Liver damage was suspected due to a significant elevation of aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT). This case report discusses how an increase in AST and ALT reflects skeletal muscle damage in rhabdomyolysis instead of liver damage, especially when assessing more specific liver markers such as international normalised ratio and ϒ-glutamyl transferase, which both were within normal range in this case. This knowledge can prevent unnecessary test.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Alanine Transaminase
  • Aspartate Aminotransferases
  • Humans
  • Liver
  • Liver Diseases*
  • Rhabdomyolysis* / diagnosis
  • Rhabdomyolysis* / etiology
  • Rhabdomyolysis* / therapy

Substances

  • Alanine Transaminase
  • Aspartate Aminotransferases