Differential Diagnosis for CK Elevations

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Muscle injury or strain: This is a common cause of CK elevation, as muscle damage leads to the release of CK into the bloodstream. Muscle injury or strain can occur due to various reasons such as overexertion, trauma, or sports-related activities.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Myopathies: Conditions like polymyositis, dermatomyositis, and muscular dystrophy can cause CK elevations due to muscle inflammation or damage.
• Intensive exercise: Prolonged or intense physical activity can lead to muscle damage and subsequent CK elevation.
• Hypothyroidism: This condition can cause muscle damage and CK elevation, although the mechanism is not fully understood.
• Statins and other medications: Certain medications, including statins, can cause muscle damage and CK elevation as a side effect.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Acute coronary syndrome: CK elevation can be a marker of myocardial damage, and it is crucial to rule out acute coronary syndrome, as it is a life-threatening condition.
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome: This rare but life-threatening condition can cause muscle damage and CK elevation, and prompt recognition is essential for effective treatment.

Rare Diagnoses

• Inflammatory myopathies: Conditions like inclusion body myositis and granulomatous myositis can cause CK elevations, although they are relatively rare.
• Mitochondrial myopathies: These are a group of rare genetic disorders that affect the mitochondria and can cause muscle damage and CK elevation.
• Glycogen storage diseases: Certain glycogen storage diseases, such as McArdle's disease, can cause CK elevations due to muscle damage.