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Reconsidering idiopathic CK-elevation
Josef Finsterer1, Werner Neuhuber, Bettina Mittendorfer
1Neurological Hospital Rosenhügel, Vienna, Austria. duarte@aonmail.at
The International Journal of Neuroscience
|September 17, 2004
Summary
Persistent idiopathic creatine-kinase (CK) elevation requires re-evaluation. Many cases have underlying causes like mitochondriopathy, seizures, or stroke, even with normal follow-up CK levels.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
Background:
- Idiopathic creatine-kinase (CK) elevation is a diagnostic challenge.
- Understanding the frequency and causes of persistent CK elevation is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the persistence rate of idiopathic CK elevation.
- To determine the proportion of cases where the cause can be identified.
- To identify the most common causes of previously idiopathic CK elevation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 28 patients with previously idiopathic CK elevation.
- Follow-up assessment of CK levels and etiological investigation.
Main Results:
- Creatine-kinase (CK) remained elevated in 32% of patients.
- The cause of idiopathic CK elevation was identified in 46% of cases.
- Identified causes included mitochondriopathy (n=5), seizures (n=2), stroke (n=2), myositis (n=1), intramuscular injection (n=1), alcohol myopathy (n=1), and pravastatin myopathy (n=1).
- CK levels normalized in 10 patients during follow-up.
- Idiopathic CK elevation persisted in 54% of cases.
Conclusions:
- A significant proportion of idiopathic CK elevation cases have identifiable causes.
- Comprehensive re-evaluation is recommended for idiopathic CK elevation, regardless of follow-up CK levels.
- Early diagnosis and management of underlying conditions are essential.