 Rhabdomyolysis is a condition in which damaged skeletal striated muscle breaks down rapidly . Breakdown products of damaged muscle cells are released into the bloodstream ; some of these , such as the protein myoglobin , are harmful to the kidneys and may lead to kidney failure . The severity of the symptoms , which may include muscle pains , vomiting , and confusion , depends on the extent of muscle damage and whether kidney failure develops . The muscle damage may be caused by physical factors ( e.g. , crush injury , strenuous exercise , medications , drug abuse , and infections ) . Some people have a hereditary muscle condition that increases the risk of rhabdomyolysis . The diagnosis is usually made with blood tests and urinalysis . The mainstay of treatment is generous quantities of intravenous fluids , but may include dialysis or hemofiltration in more severe cases . 
