Seizure-induced rhabdomyolysis accompanied by acute renal failure in a dog

Secondary complications from extreme and prolonged convulsive seizures occurred in a young dog. Physical exertion resulted in necrosis of a substantial amount of skeletal muscle. The release of large quantities of myoglobin into the circulation caused severe impairment of renal function. Anoxia, apparently associated with the inability to breathe during seizures, resulted in brain damage. It was concluded that, although primary therapy must be directed toward alleviation of intense seizure activity, subsequent screening for renal disease and corollary supportive therapy would be appropriate.