Rhabdomyolysis follows direct injury to the muscle fibers, specifically the sarcolemma, which then release myoglobin into the bloodstream. The myoglobin alters filtration in the kidneys, resulting in damage and failure.

Rhabdomyolysis may result from blunt trauma; extensive burn injury; viral, bacterial, or fungal infection (such as legionnaire’s disease or, especially, influenza type A or B); prolonged immobilization; near electrocution or near drowning; metabolic or genetic factors; drug therapy; or toxins. Heavy exercise in children may result in rhabdomyolysis. Other causes include shaken baby syndrome, exposure to extreme cold, heatstroke, and snakebite.