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Rhabdomyolysis

Meaning

A severe and potentially life-threatening clinical syndrome resulting from the rapid breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, which releases large amounts of intracellular muscle components into the bloodstream. Key substances released include creatine kinase (CK), myoglobin, and electrolytes, with myoglobin being particularly toxic to the kidneys. Hormonal factors, including severe thyroid dysfunction or electrolyte imbalances often associated with endocrine disorders, can be precipitating or exacerbating factors in this condition.