Acute Rhabdomyolysis Complicating Status Asthmaticus in Children

Abstract

Acute rhabdomyolysis complicating status asthmaticus may be more common than previously ascertained. We therefore suggest that CPK levels should be followed closely in all children with status asthmaticus and acute respiratory failure. The early presentation of rhabdomyolysis in the current series suggests that factors other than corticosteroids and neuromuscular blockers are potentially involved. Mechanical ventilation and older age seem to be significant risk factors for rhabdomyolysis, perhaps implicating a mechanism similar to the pathogenesis of severe exercise-related rhabdomyolysis. Further clinical study of the incidence and causative factors of rhabdomyolysis in this population is warranted.