TRANSIENT RENAL TUBULAR ACIDOSIS IN PREGNANCY

A TRIGGER FOR RHABDOMYOLYSIS – A CASE REPORT

Abstract

INTRODUCTION/BACKGROUND
Hypokalemia during pregnancy is a rare yet significant condition that can predispose to rhabdomyolysis, as demonstrated in this case report of a 27-year-old female.

CASE
We report a case of hypokalemia-induced rhabdomyolysis due to RTA (renal tubular acidosis) which occurred in 2 subsequent pregnancies. During her second pregnancy at 28 weeks gestation, the patient developed severe hypokalemia-induced rhabdomyolysis secondary to transient renal tubular acidosis (RTA), a condition also observed during her first pregnancy. Clinical findings included profound hypokalemia (2.1 mmol/L), metabolic acidosis, renal potassium wasting, and markedly elevated creatinine kinase levels. Immediate management with potassium supplementation and hydration led to symptom resolution, and the patient had an uneventful postpartum recovery.

CONCLUSION
This case highlights the rarity and complexity of transient yet recurrent RTA in pregnancy in association with rhabdomyolysis, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and multidisciplinary management to prevent feto-maternal complications. Follow-up and preemptive care in subsequent pregnancies are recommended.