AEMCA Practice Exam

What is a common cause of acute renal failure related to muscle injury?

1. Pyelonephritis

2. Rhabdomyolysis

3. Dehydration

4. Chronic hypertension

The correct answer is: Rhabdomyolysis

Rhabdomyolysis is a significant cause of acute renal failure related to muscle injury. This condition occurs when there is a breakdown of muscle tissue, releasing myoglobin into the bloodstream. Myoglobin is a protein that can be detrimental to the kidneys. When the concentration of myoglobin increases, it can lead to kidney damage and acute kidney injury, primarily due to the obstruction of renal tubules and a decrease in renal perfusion. This understanding of rhabdomyolysis highlights its direct link to muscle injury and the resultant complications. The release of myoglobin not only clogs the renal tubules but can also cause systemic complications like electrolyte imbalances, further exacerbating kidney dysfunction. In contrast to rhabdomyolysis, pyelonephritis is primarily a kidney infection and is related to inflammatory processes rather than muscle injury. Dehydration can lead to kidney function impairment but is not specifically linked to direct muscle injury. Chronic hypertension affects kidney health over time but is not an immediate cause of acute renal failure related to muscle damage. Thus, the nature of rhabdomyolysis and its mechanisms makes it the correct answer in this context.