Case Report

An Unusual Cause of Rhabdomyolysis: Acute Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

10.5152/jaem.2012.038

  • Suat Zengin
  • Behçet Al
  • Cuma Yıldırım
  • Erdal Yavuz
  • Aycan Akcalı

Received Date: 14.03.2012 Accepted Date: 02.04.2012 Eurasian J Emerg Med 2013;12(1):43-45

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a toxic gas produced by the incomplete combustion of carbon-containing compounds. Exposure to high concentrations of CO can be lethal and is the most common cause of death from poisoning worldwide. Rhabdomyolysis caused by CO poisoning is uncommon. Early recognition of rhabdomyolysis in such cases is important, since this complication can be fatal as it leads to acute renal failure. However, the prognosis is excellent if proper medical management is provided. In the present study, we discuss rhabdomyolysis caused by CO poisoning in a 68-year-old man.

Keywords: Carbon monoxide poisoning, carboxyhemoglobin, rhabdomyolysis