Texas Woman’s University athletes hospitalized with rhabdomyolysis, muscle breakdown

Eight student-athletes at Texas Woman’s University were hospitalized over the weekend with symptoms of rhabdomyolysis, a breakdown of muscle tissue that can lead to kidney failure, the university announced Monday.

The university did not identify which sport the athletes play, citing privacy laws, but said all of them are in stable condition and improving. Star-Telegram content partner WFAA-TV reported that some of the athletes are on the university’s volleyball team.

“The university is assessing the situation and will take appropriate actions as necessary,” Monica Mendez-Grant, vice president for student life, wrote to students Monday.

Rhabdomyolysis happens when muscle tissue is damaged and broken down, and muscle fiber contents are released into the bloodstream, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Severe exertion and dehydration can lead to the condition, which can cause kidney damage and, in some cases, lead to acute kidney failure and shock.

The Denton County health department was notified of patients suffering from “muscle weakness, pain and swelling consistent with a clinical diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis,” WFAA reported. The health department was investigating.

This story was originally published August 22, 2016 at 4:56 PM with the headline "Texas Woman’s University athletes hospitalized with rhabdomyolysis, muscle breakdown."