National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

A patient exhibiting muscle aches, cramps, soreness, and tea-colored urine is most likely suffering from which condition?

1. Hyponatremia

2. Hypokalemia

3. Rhabdomyolysis

4. Myasthenia gravis

The correct answer is: Rhabdomyolysis

The presentation of muscle aches, cramps, soreness, and tea-colored urine strongly suggests rhabdomyolysis. This condition occurs when muscle tissue breaks down and releases its contents, including myoglobin, into the bloodstream. The myoglobin can then be filtered by the kidneys, leading to tea-colored urine which is indicative of myoglobinuria. Rhabdomyolysis is often associated with significant muscle injury from strenuous exercise, trauma, or underlying medical conditions. The breakdown of muscle fibers results in the release of various substances, leading to symptoms such as muscle pain and weakness. The presence of tea-colored urine is a hallmark sign, as the kidneys may become overwhelmed by the myoglobin, potentially leading to acute kidney injury if not treated promptly. In contrast, hyponatremia and hypokalemia would typically present with different symptoms, such as alterations in consciousness, muscle cramping, or cardiac arrhythmias, rather than tea-colored urine. Myasthenia gravis primarily affects muscle strength and fatigability rather than causing significant muscle breakdown or changing the color of urine. Therefore, the symptoms and signs provided align closely with rhabdomyolysis, confirming it as the most likely diagnosis in this scenario.