[A marathon runner with rhabdomyolysis].

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Nephrology
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Serious complications from marathon running are infrequent.
• This case highlights a rare instance of severe exertional rhabdomyolysis.

Observation:

• A 31-year-old male presented with severe muscle pain, vomiting, and reduced urine output two days post-marathon.
• Initial creatine kinase levels were extremely elevated (131,900 U/l).
• Laboratory tests confirmed acute kidney injury with a creatinine level of 705 µmol/l.

Findings:

• The patient was treated with aggressive fluid resuscitation to enhance renal perfusion.
• The condition was diagnosed as acute renal failure secondary to rhabdomyolysis.
• The patient recovered after a 17-day hospital stay.

Implications:

• Exertional rhabdomyolysis leading to acute kidney injury can occur after marathons.
• Risk factors include environmental conditions, individual predispositions, and genetic factors.
• Recommend hospital assessment for marathon runners with hyperthermia (>40°C) and altered consciousness.