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Melting muscles: novel H1N1 influenza A associated rhabdomyolysis

Dimple D'Silva1, Saliya Hewagama, Richard Doherty

  • 1Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Victoria, Australia. dimpledsilva@yahoo.com

The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal
|October 21, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Novel influenza A (H1N1/09) virus can cause severe muscle inflammation (myositis) and rhabdomyolysis. Consider these conditions in patients with influenza-like illness and severe muscle symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Virology
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Influenza A (H1N1/09) is a novel virus with pandemic potential.
  • Influenza typically causes respiratory symptoms, but systemic complications can occur.

Observation:

  • A case of myositis and rhabdomyolysis following H1N1/09 infection is presented.
  • The patient experienced severe myalgia and muscle weakness.

Findings:

  • This case highlights the H1N1/09 virus's capacity to induce significant muscle damage.
  • Myositis and rhabdomyolysis are potential complications of H1N1/09 infection.

Implications:

  • Clinicians should consider myositis and rhabdomyolysis in patients with influenza-like symptoms and severe muscle pain or weakness.
  • Anticipate more severe clinical manifestations of H1N1/09 during the upcoming respiratory virus season.

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