What are the causes and clinical significance of elevated creatine kinase?

Under normal circumstances, creatine kinase is primarily found in cardiac muscle, skeletal muscle, and brain tissue. Elevated creatine kinase levels may be associated with intense physical exercise, drug side effects, crush syndrome, rhabdomyolysis, myocardial infarction, and other causes. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Intense Exercise

During intense physical activity, muscle fibers may suffer mechanical damage or increased energy demands that exceed the normal metabolic capacity of muscle cells, leading to skeletal muscle injury and the release of creatine kinase into the bloodstream. Symptoms commonly include muscle soreness and fatigue. Adequate rest is necessary, along with avoiding high-intensity exercise in the short term and ensuring sufficient hydration and electrolyte intake to support muscle recovery.

2. Drug Side Effects

Certain medications, such as statins for lipid lowering or some antibiotics, may cause muscle damage, resulting in elevated creatine kinase levels. Symptoms may include muscle pain and weakness. It is advisable to promptly consult a doctor to adjust the dosage or switch to alternative medications.

3. Crush Syndrome

Prolonged maintenance of the same posture or external pressure can lead to local circulatory impairment, causing muscle hypoxia and accumulation of metabolic byproducts, which may result in ischemia and necrosis of local muscle tissue and subsequently elevate creatine kinase levels. Changing body position and avoiding prolonged pressure on any single area are recommended.

4. Rhabdomyolysis

Rhabdomyolysis is caused by factors such as excessive physical exertion or metabolic abnormalities, leading to severe muscle tissue damage and a significant increase in creatine kinase levels. Common symptoms include muscle pain, weakness, and dark (tea-colored) urine. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as methylprednisolone tablets, sodium bicarbonate tablets, and edaravone injection.

5. Myocardial Infarction

Myocardial infarction occurs when cardiac muscle cells undergo ischemic necrosis due to insufficient blood supply from coronary arteries. In this condition, large amounts of creatine kinase are released from damaged heart muscle into the bloodstream, causing elevated levels. Typical symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, and nausea. Treatment under medical supervision may involve medications such as heparin sodium injection, lidocaine hydrochloride injection, and dopamine hydrochloride injection.

Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits in daily life—such as avoiding overexertion and excessive exercise, and ensuring adequate sleep and rest—is beneficial for overall health.