A Retrospective Analysis of Crayfish-Related Rhabdomyolysis (Haff Disease)

Changbao Huang1, Liangfei Peng1, Nengkai Gong1

  • 1Department of Emergency Medicine, Yijishan Hospital, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241001, China.

Insights

Haff disease, a form of rhabdomyolysis, can cause severe muscle pain and weakness after eating crayfish. Fortunately, this condition typically presents with mild symptoms and has a favorable prognosis, with all patients recovering.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Toxicology
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Haff disease is a rare condition characterized by rhabdomyolysis, often linked to consuming specific seafood.
  • Understanding the epidemiological and etiological factors is crucial for public health.
  • Previous studies on crayfish-associated Haff disease are limited.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the epidemiologic and etiologic factors of crayfish-related rhabdomyolysis (Haff disease).
  • To describe the clinical features, therapeutic regimen, and prognosis of Haff disease.
  • To analyze a cluster of Haff disease cases linked to crayfish consumption.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of clinical data from 29 patients diagnosed with Haff disease between July and August 2016.
  • Summarization of clinical characteristics, including onset, symptoms, and laboratory findings.
  • Evaluation of treatment strategies and patient outcomes.

Main Results:

  • The study identified 29 cases of Haff disease following cooked crayfish consumption, with an incubation period of 1-48 hours.
  • Patients presented with severe myalgia (100%), weakness, numbness, chest tightness, and pain.
  • Elevated creatine kinase (CK) and CK-MB levels were observed, with no significant hepatorenal damage; all patients recovered fully.

Conclusions:

  • Crayfish-related rhabdomyolysis (Haff disease) presents as severe myalgia or weakness of unknown etiology.
  • Despite severe initial symptoms, the clinical presentation is relatively mild with a favorable outcome.
  • Prompt recognition and supportive care are essential for managing Haff disease.
Abstract

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