Myoglobinuria

Myoglobinuria is a medical condition characterized by the presence of myoglobin in the urine, usually associated with muscle destruction. Myoglobin is an iron- and oxygen-binding protein found in the muscle tissue of most mammals. When the muscle tissue is damaged, myoglobin is released into the bloodstream and eventually appears in the urine, causing it to turn a dark brown color.

Causes

Myoglobinuria can be caused by any condition that results in muscle damage, including:

• Trauma or crush injuries
• Burns
• Seizures
• Metabolic disorders such as McArdle's disease
• Infections that produce muscle inflammation
• Alcohol abuse
• Certain medications and drugs
• Prolonged coma
• Extreme physical activity, especially in untrained individuals

Symptoms

The primary symptom of myoglobinuria is dark or brown urine. Other symptoms can include muscle weakness or pain, fatigue, and in severe cases, kidney failure.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of myoglobinuria typically involves a urine test to detect the presence of myoglobin. Blood tests may also be used to measure levels of creatine kinase, an enzyme that is released into the bloodstream when muscle tissue is damaged.

Treatment

Treatment for myoglobinuria primarily involves treating the underlying cause of the muscle damage. This may include rehydration to help flush the myoglobin out of the kidneys, medications to control symptoms, and in severe cases, dialysis to remove the myoglobin from the blood.

See also

• Rhabdomyolysis
• Hematuria
• Proteinuria

Myoglobinuria Resources
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