Which electrolyte abnormality is commonly seen in rhabdomyolysis and may contribute to cardiac conduction abnormalities?

Which electrolyte abnormality is commonly seen in rhabdomyolysis and may contribute to cardiac conduction abnormalities?

• A. Hypokalemia
• B. Hyperkalemia
• C. Hyponatremia
• D. Hypercalcemia

Answer: (B)

Rhabdomyolysis releases intracellular potassium into the blood, leading to hyperkalemia. Elevated extracellular potassium reduces the resting membrane potential gradient, partly depolarizing the cell and inactivating some sodium channels. This slows impulse conduction and can produce the characteristic ECG changes and risk of conduction abnormalities seen with high potassium levels. While other electrolyte shifts can occur later, the conduction problems in rhabdomyolysis are most directly linked to hyperkalemia.

Rhabdomyolysis releases intracellular potassium into the blood, leading to hyperkalemia. Elevated extracellular potassium reduces the resting membrane potential gradient, partly depolarizing the cell and inactivating some sodium channels. This slows impulse conduction and can produce the characteristic ECG changes and risk of conduction abnormalities seen with high potassium levels. While other electrolyte shifts can occur later, the conduction problems in rhabdomyolysis are most directly linked to hyperkalemia.