Hypokalaemic rhabdomyolysis as initial presentation of primary aldosteronism

Rhabdomyolysis is a clinical syndrome characterised by the destruction of skeletal muscle with subsequent leakage of intracellular muscle contents into the systemic circulation. It is commonly caused by trauma, strenuous physical activities, medications, illicit drug use, toxins, infections and electrolyte abnormalities. It can manifest as myalgia, muscle weakness, or myoglobinuria with or without acute kidney injury. Severe hypokalaemia leading to rhabdomyolysis is a rare initial presentation of primary aldosteronism, with limited case reports in existing medical literature.

Serum potassium, calcium and magnesium in patients receiving ESHAP chemotherapy for relapsed lymphomas

Etoposide, methylprednisolone, cytarabine and cisplatin (ESHAP) is one of the mostly widely used chemotherapy regimens for patients with relapsed lymphomas. Cisplatin administration is commonly associated with electrolyte imbalance. Careful monitoring of renal function and serum electrolytes is therefore essential in this setting.

Aims: To review the practice of electrolyte monitoring – potassium (K), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) – in patients receiving ESHAP and the frequency and severity of abnormalities and their management.