학술논문
From quail to earthquakes and human conflict: a historical perspective of rhabdomyolysis
CKJ REVIEW
CKJ REVIEW
Document Type
Academic Journal
Source
Clinical Kidney Journal. April 2021, Vol. 14 Issue 4, p1088, 9 p.
Subject
Language
English
ISSN
2048-8505
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The term rhabdomyolysis derives from the Greek words [phrase omitted] (rhabdos, rod), [phrase omitted] (mus, muscle) and [phrase omitted] (lusis, loosening), and describes a syndrome with disintegration ofstriated muscle [...]
Rhabdomyolysis is a common cause of acute kidney injury, featuring muscle pain, weakness and dark urine and concurrent laboratory evidence of elevated muscle enzymes and myoglobinuria. Rhabdomyolysis is often seen in elderly and frail patients following prolonged immobilization, for example after a fall, but a variety of other causes are also well-described. What is unknown to most physicians dealing with such patients is the fascinating history of rhabdomyolysis. Cases of probable rhabdomyolysis have been reported since biblical times and during antiquity, often in the context of poisoning. Equally interesting is the link between rhabdomyolysis and armed conflict during the 20th century. Salient discoveries regarding the pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment were made during the two world wars and in their aftermath. 'Haff disease', a form of rhabdomyolysis first described in 1920, has fascinated scientists and physicians alike, but the marine toxin causing it remains enigmatic even today. As a specialty, we have also learned a lot about the disease from 20th-century earthquakes, and networks of international help and cooperation have emerged. Finally, rhabdomyolysis has been described as a sequel to torture and similar forms of violence. Clinicians should be aware that rhabdomyolysis and the development of renal medicine are deeply intertwined with human history. Keywords: AKI, crush injury, history, rhabdomyolysis
Rhabdomyolysis is a common cause of acute kidney injury, featuring muscle pain, weakness and dark urine and concurrent laboratory evidence of elevated muscle enzymes and myoglobinuria. Rhabdomyolysis is often seen in elderly and frail patients following prolonged immobilization, for example after a fall, but a variety of other causes are also well-described. What is unknown to most physicians dealing with such patients is the fascinating history of rhabdomyolysis. Cases of probable rhabdomyolysis have been reported since biblical times and during antiquity, often in the context of poisoning. Equally interesting is the link between rhabdomyolysis and armed conflict during the 20th century. Salient discoveries regarding the pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment were made during the two world wars and in their aftermath. 'Haff disease', a form of rhabdomyolysis first described in 1920, has fascinated scientists and physicians alike, but the marine toxin causing it remains enigmatic even today. As a specialty, we have also learned a lot about the disease from 20th-century earthquakes, and networks of international help and cooperation have emerged. Finally, rhabdomyolysis has been described as a sequel to torture and similar forms of violence. Clinicians should be aware that rhabdomyolysis and the development of renal medicine are deeply intertwined with human history. Keywords: AKI, crush injury, history, rhabdomyolysis