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Abstract
Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning typically occurs from inhalation of CO at excessive levels. Rhabdomyolsis is not an uncommon complication following acute CO poisoning, yet there are very few reported cases in the literature. It is characterised by rapid breakdown of skeletal muscles and release of its contents into the circulation, leading to acute kidney injury (AKI). Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to avoid anticipated morbidity and mortality. We are presenting a case of a woman in her 40s with 28% flame burn in a closed space. The patient developed CO poisoning, which led to rhabdomyolysis as evidenced by clinical manifestations and laboratory findings (creatine kinase had reached an unmeasurable level). The patient developed AKI and was successfully managed in our ICU. Here, we are highlighting the importance of considering CO poisoning as one of the potential causes of rhabdomyolysis in burn victim.
- Plastic and reconstructive surgery
- Adult intensive care
- Poisoning
- Acute renal failure
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Footnotes
Contributors TAK: wrote the case report, collected the data and the figures, involved in the management of the case during the admission until discharge. Responded to the reviewers’ comments. RG: helped TAK in writing the case report and responding to the reviewers and was also involved in the management of the case. She also did the necessary language editing. MMA: helped TAK and RG in reviewing the case report and literature. NL: the primary consultant of the case and the head of the plastic surgery and burn unit. He reviewed and finalised the final manuscript.
Funding The authors have not declared a specific grant for this research from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors.
Case reports provide a valuable learning resource for the scientific community and can indicate areas of interest for future research. They should not be used in isolation to guide treatment choices or public health policy.
Competing interests None declared.
Provenance and peer review Not commissioned; externally peer reviewed.
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