What is the most reliable method to confirm rhabdomyolysis?

Rhabdomyolysis is a condition characterized by the breakdown of muscle tissue, leading to the release of muscle fibers and myoglobin into the bloodstream, which can result in kidney damage. The most reliable method to confirm rhabdomyolysis is through urinalysis.

In cases of rhabdomyolysis, the presence of myoglobin in the urine is a key indicator. Urinalysis can reveal reddish-brown urine, which is often associated with myoglobinuria, resulting from the breakdown of muscle fibers. A positive urine dipstick test for blood, with minimal or no red blood cells detected microscopically, typically suggests the presence of myoglobin.

While blood tests, such as serum creatine kinase (CK) levels, are useful in diagnosing rhabdomyolysis, they may not be as immediate and specific in demonstrating the impact on the urine. CT scans and ultrasounds do not provide information about muscle breakdown or myoglobin release, as they are imaging techniques primarily used to assess structural abnormalities rather than biochemical or physiological functions directly related to rhabdomyolysis. Therefore, urinalysis stands out as the most reliable method for confirming this condition.