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Review
. 2025 Apr;41(1):111-124.
doi: 10.1016/j.cveq.2024.11.003. Epub 2025 Jan 28.

Sporadic and Recurrent Exertional Rhabdomyolysis

Stephanie J Valberg  1
Affiliations
Review

Sporadic and Recurrent Exertional Rhabdomyolysis

Stephanie J Valberg. Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract. 2025 Apr.

Abstract

Horses are particularly susceptible to developing exertional rhabdomyolysis (ER) characterized by muscle stiffness, pain, and reluctance to move. Diagnosis requires establishing abnormal increases in serum creatine kinase activity when horses exhibit clinical signs. The 2 main categories of ER include sporadic ER arising from extrinsic causes and chronic ER that arises from intrinsic continuous or episodic abnormalities in muscle function. This article focuses on treatment of acute ER and causes and management of sporadic ER. Differential diagnoses for chronic ER as well as the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of recurrent ER, and malignant hyperthermia are also discussed in this article.

Keywords: Myopathy; Rhabdomyolysis; Skeletal muscle; Tying up.

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Conflict of interest statement

Disclosure S.J. Valberg directs the Valberg Neuromuscular Disease Laboratory (ValbergNMDL.com) and receives remuneration for analyzing muscle biopsies. Her Web site is sponsored by Kentucky Equine Research, United States, and she receives royalties from the PSSM1 genetic test and the feed products Re-leve and MFM pellet developed in association with Kentucky Equine Research.

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