Thu11November0840AM 6

A 42-year-old female is admitted following an overdose of diazepam and alcohol.

On examination, she was unconscious with a core temperature of 34.5°C and a blood pressure of 110/80 mmHg.

Investigations reveal:

Creatinine 242 µmol/L (60-100)

AST 500 U/L (0-40)

Gamma GT 35 U/L (<50)

Urine microscopy No cells or organisms

Urine dipstick blood+++

Ultrasound abdomen Normal

Which one of the following is the most likely cause of these findings?

(Please select 1 option)

Hypothermia

Rhabdomyolysis Correct

Associated paracetamol poisoning

Dehydration

Chronic renal failure

Explanation

This patient has taken an overdose of diazepam and has collapsed for an indeterminate period. She is now seen with renal impairment.

The features together with the elevated amino transferase (AST) (from muscle) suggest a diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis.

Answer Statistics

1

3%

2

78%

3

14%

4

6%

5

1%

Times answered: 277