kidney damage

Absa Cape Epic – Multi-stage events and kidney damage

Business

Posted on 14 March 2019

In 2018, eight riders were withdrawn from the Absa Cape Epic and referred to Dr Geoff Bihl, a nephrologist at Mediclinic Vergelegen, for additional care. Most of these patients received treatment for a combination of severe dehydration (>7% body weight), rhabdomyolysis (the breakdown of muscle), where this can lead to life-threatening blood electrolyte abnormalities i.e. potassium, acute kidney injury or heat stroke. The decision to withdraw a rider is not taken lightly, or without due consideration to all factors affecting the rider.