Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 13, 2026
07:06
Use of Micro X-ray Computed Tomography with Phosphotungstic Acid Preparation to Visualize Human Fibromuscular Tissue
Published on: September 5, 2019
Gemfibrozil induced myositis: a case report with light microscopic and ultrastructural study
Summary
Gemfibrozil can cause severe myositis and compartment syndrome in patients with kidney failure. This condition, distinct from clofibrate effects, requires extreme caution when prescribing gemfibrozil to those with impaired renal function.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Nephrology
- Neuromuscular Disorders
Background:
- Hyperlipidemia management often involves lipid-lowering drugs.
- Chronic renal failure (CRF) presents unique challenges in drug metabolism and excretion.
- Gemfibrozil is a fibric acid derivative used to treat hyperlipidemia.
Observation:
- A 49-year-old woman with CRF developed myositis after gemfibrozil treatment.
- The myositis progressed to acute compartment syndrome, requiring fasciotomy.
- Muscle biopsy revealed skeletal muscle fiber degeneration and inflammation.
Findings:
- Electron microscopy showed myofibrillary fragmentation and mitochondrial disorganization.
- Gemfibrozil-induced myositis exhibits distinct clinicopathologic features compared to clofibrate-induced muscular syndrome.
- Impaired renal function is a critical risk factor for gemfibrozil-induced myotoxicity.
Implications:
- Exercise extreme caution when prescribing gemfibrozil to patients with impaired renal function.
- Understanding the distinct pathophysiology of gemfibrozil myositis is crucial for diagnosis and management.
- This case highlights the potential for severe adverse drug reactions in patients with CRF.
