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Emerg Med J 25:305-306 doi:10.1136/emj.2007.055848
  • Emergency casebooks

Spontaneous compartment syndrome in association with simvastatin-induced myositis

  1. J L Walker,
  2. G H Smith,
  3. M S Gaston,
  4. C M Robinson
  1. Department of Orthopaedics, Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, UK
  1. Mr G Smith, SpR Orthopaedic Surgery, Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, Little France, Dalkeith Road, Edinburgh EH16 4SU, UK; georgesmith{at}doctors.org.uk
  • Accepted 18 November 2007

Abstract

Compartment syndrome as a result of simvastatin-induced myositis is extremely rare. This case discusses a patient with spontaneous onset compartment syndrome that necessitated four-compartment fasciotomy. A thorough investigation into its cause highlighted statin-induced myositis as the most likely aetiological agent. When investigating a patient with unexplained spontaneous compartment syndrome it is important to consider drug-induced myositis. This case reinforces the difficulty faced in diagnosing spontaneous compartment syndrome.

Footnotes

  • Competing interests: None.