Approach to the Patient With HyperCKemia

The best predictors for added diagnostic yield with further testing in hyperCKemia are a higher level of CK and a younger age; the presence of weakness increases the likelihood of a specific cause other than idiopathic or familial hyperCKemia. Many etiologies do not yet have treatments that alter clinical outcomes, and, even in the absence of a specific diagnosis, good communication with patients and primary care providers remains essential to ensure longitudinal surveillance with expectant management for potential consequences. Many patients with hyperCKemia of uncertain etiology, however, will not develop significant muscle disease on longitudinal follow-up.