An elevated creatine kinase in the context of influenza A infection and sickle cell trait

We describe the case of a 37-year-old normally fit and well man who presented to hospital with fever, lethargy and myalgia. He was found to have a creatine kinase level of over 1 million IU.l(-1). He initially underwent fluid resuscitation, but despite this his renal function declined and he required continuous veno-venous haemodiafiltration. Subsequent testing revealed a positive viral swab for influenza A and that he was a carrier of sickle cell trait. We review the literature for previous reports describing this association and demonstrate the rarity of such a presentation.