Reconsidering idiopathic CK-elevation.

This study investigated the frequency of persisting, idiopathic creatine-kinase (CK)-elevation, how often the cause of idiopathic CK-elevation could be clarified, and the most frequent causes of idiopathic CK-elevation. Among 28 patients with previously idiopathic CK-elevation, CK remained elevated in 32%. The cause of idiopathic CK-elevation could be determined in 46%.

Influence of disposable, concentric needle electrodes on muscle enzyme and lactate serum levels.

Several studies addressed the question whether needle-EMG causes elevation of muscle enzymes [aspartate-aminotransferase, alanine-aminotransferase, lactate-dehydrogenase, creatine-phosphokinase (CPK), isoenzyme-MB, aldolase] and lactate with conflicting results. However, these studies used sterilizable needle electrodes and different protocols and methods to record EMGs and determine muscle enzymes. This study examined if muscle enzymes are elevated immediately after or 24 h following EMGs with disposable, concentric needle-electrodes, and if they are dependent on age, sex, muscle, number of investigated sites and previous CPK-elevation.