Hypokalaemic rhabdomyolysis: an unusual presentation of coeliac disease.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the clinical presentation and management of a patient with hypokalaemic rhabdomyolysis secondary to coeliac disease.


METHODS
Retrospective study.


METHODS
Hospital based.


METHODS
A 60-year-old Caucasian man presenting with weakness caused by hypokalaemic rhabdomyolysis secondary to coeliac disease.


METHODS
Following the diagnosis by jejunal biopsy, the patient was treated with both intravenous and oral potassium supplements, and a gluten-free diet.


METHODS
Resolution of weakness and restitution of normal villous architecture following treatment.


RESULTS
The patient's myopathy responded to the potassium supplements, his diarrhoea and histological changes resolved while on the gluten-free diet.


CONCLUSIONS
Patients with coeliac disease may present with hypokalaemia in association with steatorrhoea. If potassium loss is rapid, rhabdomyolysis may occur. Coeliac disease should be considered a cause of malabsorption-induced hypokalaemic rhabdomyolysis.
Williams
S G
SG
Department of Medicine, Southend General Hospital, London, UK.
Davison
A G
AG
Glynn
M J
MJ
D000328:Adult; D002446:Celiac Disease / Q000150:complications* / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D007008:Hypokalemia / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D008297:Male; D012206:Rhabdomyolysis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy