JPL Ong

Abstract

Rhabdomyolysis is a serious and life-threatening condition in which skeletal muscle is damaged, commonly resulting in acute renal failure. The causes of this clinical entity can be traumatic and non-traumatic. In the latter group, alcohol is the commonest cause. This report describes the case of a 25 year old man who presented with rhabdomyolysis leading to acute renal failure after an alcohol binge. He presented with painful legs and lower extremity compartment syndrome. The patient recovered with surgical fasciotomy and renal support. This case illustrates the importance of early recognition and treatment of alcohol related non-traumatic rhabdomyolysis and compartment syndrome.