Bilateral compartment syndrome associated with androgen therapy: a case report

A patient being treated with androgens developed an acute bilateral compartment syndrome. Androgens are known to cause hypertrophy of muscle, which in a closed fascial compartment may predispose to a compartment syndrome. While an acute syndrome has not been reported previously, patients on androgen therapy frequently complain of cramps and leg pain, which may be manifestations of chronic compartment syndrome. The above case report does not establish a positive cause and effect relationship, but because this occurrence has not been documented before we believe the relationship should be considered. Patients on androgens should be examined for the possibility of compartment syndromes, either acute or chronic. The actual compartment pressures can be measured in suspected cases.