Rhabdomyolysis-Induced Unilateral Sciatic Neuropathy: A Case Study and Clinical-Anatomic Review

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Rhabdomyolysis, a condition of muscle breakdown, commonly presents with elevated muscle enzymes and typically resolves without complications.
• However, rhabdomyolysis can uncommonly be associated with various neuropathies, including mononeuropathy and peripheral neuropathy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of rhabdomyolysis associated with unilateral sciatic neuropathy.
• To discuss the potential for compressive neuropathies in severe rhabdomyolysis cases.

Main Methods:

• A case study of a 28-year-old male presenting with left leg weakness after prolonged immobilization.
• Clinical evaluation, including assessment for rhabdomyolysis and compartment syndrome.
• Anatomical description and review of sciatic nerve clinical syndromes.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with focal weakness in the left leg following prolonged immobilization.
• Rhabdomyolysis was diagnosed, accompanied by unilateral sciatic neuropathy.
• No evidence of compartment syndrome was found.

Conclusions:

• Severe rhabdomyolysis can lead to compressive neuropathies, even without compartment syndrome.
• Compressive mononeuropathy, particularly affecting the sciatic nerve, should be considered in rhabdomyolysis cases with myotomal pattern limb weakness.