Monitoring of Creatine Kinase Levels in Specific Military Populations for Early Treatment
Abstract
The high physical demand of military environments such as basic training, selection schools, and advanced courses subject the member to extreme muscle usage with potentially inadequate recovery time. As the muscle breaks down with extreme use, the protein, myoglobin, builds up in the blood. If the individual does not have sufficient rest time, allowing the body to recover, health problems can arise as the kidneys attempt to process the excess myoglobin. A blockage in the kidneys due to the protein can occur resulting in decreased function culminating in kidney failure and death if untreated. Extreme skeletal muscle breakdown that can result in kidney issues is rhabdomyolysis. Creatine kinase (CK) is an enzyme released by damaged muscle and is an accurate marker for muscle injury. Without CK monitoring, extreme muscle stiffness could be considered normal due to recent increase in physical activity. Determining a subset of military members that are at higher risk for extreme muscle damage can create a small population that would benefit the most from CK monitoring. Preexisting health conditions can increase an individuals susceptibility to rhabdomyolysis. The military allows a few of these preexisting health conditions upon entry while others are allowed after a member is on active duty. Monitoring this subset population during extreme exercise for CK levels can alert when proactive preventative action could prevent permanent damage.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1041086
Entities
People
- Lindsey L. Mahoney
Organizations
- Air Command and Staff College