Rhabdomyolysis associated with compartment syndrome resulting in acute renal failure

Compartment syndrome has rarely been reported associated with acute rhabdomyolysis. In the case described, the rhabdomyolysis was severe enough to cause compartment syndrome and acute renal failure after moderate exercise and alcohol intake and had the appearance of a myositis. The case emphasizes the importance of early recognition of compartment syndrome, as loss of pulses is a very late sign, and the examination of the urine to detect myoglobinuria in rhabdomyolysis. Measurement of creatine kinase is predictive of the extent of muscle damage and the development of renal failure.