[Rhabdomyolysis associated with an iodinated contrast media]

A case of rhabdomyolysis associated with an iodinated contrast medium (sodium diatrizoate) in a patient with chronic renal failure is presented for the purpose of discussing this association. Clinical manifestations were: diffuse myalgias, proximal muscular weakness and an acute reversible deterioration of the renal function. Muscle biopsy showed the typical pattern found in rhabdomyolysis, that is, cellular necrosis with no inflammation signs and myolytic areas. The temporal association between the rhabdomyolysis and the use of the contrast medium suggests a causal relationship. The present case allows us to postulate that the skeletal muscle injury was secondary to direct toxicity and/or the compromise of muscle blood perfusion by the contrast medium in a susceptible muscle due to previous renal failure. It is suggested that this group of substances should be incorporated to the list of agents capable of causing non traumatic rhabdomyolysis.