Acute renal failure in McArdle's disease and myoglobinuric states

Reversible acute oliguric renal failure associated with skeletal muscle abnormalities due to either McArdle's disease or myoglobinuria developed in two patients. Renal angiographic and hemodynamic data revealed a preferential diffuse reduction in cortical perfusion. Arteriography showed absence of a cortical nephrogram and attenuation of the distal interlobar and arcuate arteries. Contrast medium was delayed in passage through the edematous kidney. These changes are distinct from those of chronic renal failure due to parenchymal disease. The renal arteriogram can be a useful adjunct in the differential diagnosis of acute renal failure of obscure origin.