Nicholas J. Hora, DO; Felix E. Chukwudelunzu, Sr., MD
WMJ. 2025;124(4):394-397.
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Rhabdomyolysis is a common but complex medical condition that typically presents with asymptomatic muscle enzyme elevation and follows a benign course. Cases of rhabdomyolysis associated with mononeuropathy, mononeuropathy multiplex, and peripheral neuropathy are uncommon.
Case Presentation: We present the case of a 28-year-old man with focal weakness of the left leg that developed after he fell to the floor and was immobilized on his left side for a prolonged length of time (ie, 6-8 hours). Further evaluation revealed rhabdomyolysis associated with unilateral sciatic neuropathy but no evidence of compartment syndrome.
Discussion: Severe cases of rhabdomyolysis, with or without compartment syndrome, can result in compressive neuropathies. We provide a detailed anatomic description of the sciatic nerve and review its associated clinical syndromes.
Conclusions: In cases of rhabdomyolysis associated with focal limb weakness that follows a myotomal distribution, compressive mononeuropathy should be considered in the differential diagnosis.