[Rhabdomyolysis caused by hyperemesis gravidarum]

Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a condition of severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, accompanied by dehydration, electrolyte derangement and lack of nutrition. We describe a 26-year-old woman pregnant at 29 weeks of gestation, complaining about muscle pain and difficulties standing up after suffering from long-term HG followed by a weight loss of 35 kg. She had severe hypokalaemia and abnormally elevated muscle enzyme concentrations as a result of a massive catabolic process. We discuss severe HG as a rare cause of rhabdomyolysis and the importance of early aggressive resuscitation to avoid renal failure.