Does alcohol intoxication contribute to rhabdomyolysis
How does alcohol intoxication contribute to rhabdomyolysis?
Alcohol is directly toxic to myocytes (and also proximal tubular cells). Alcoholics are often phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium depleted:
• Hypokalemia impairs the ability of muscle arterioles to vasodilate, promoting ischemic muscle injury.
• Hypomagnesemia can worsen concurrent hypokalemia.
• Phosphorus deficiency may result from poor diet, the use of phosphorus-binding medications used for gastrointestinal upset, and urinary phosphorus wasting. Phosphorus is critical in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and multiple cellular enzymes.
Furthermore, alcohol intoxication leading to altered mental status may result in compressive injuries from trauma or to muscle injury from prolonged motionlessness in unconscious individuals.
