Rhabdomyolysis developing secondary to atorvastatin therapy in a patient with liver cirrhosis

Intern Med. 2013;52(7):823-5. doi: 10.2169/internalmedicine.52.9272. Epub 2013 Apr 1.

Abstract

Atorvastatin is a lipid lowering agent that is widely used worldwide. Rhabdomyolysis is a rare but serious side effect that may lead to renal failure and dangerous electrolyte abnormalities in patients with decreased hepatic clearance of atorvastatin. We herein report the case of a patient with liver cirrhosis receiving atorvastatin therapy for ischemic heart disease and hyperlipidemia who developed rhabdomyolysis and acute renal failure.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Anticholesteremic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Atorvastatin
  • Female
  • Heptanoic Acids / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Liver Cirrhosis / diagnosis
  • Liver Cirrhosis / drug therapy*
  • Pyrroles / adverse effects*
  • Rhabdomyolysis / chemically induced*
  • Rhabdomyolysis / diagnosis*

Substances

  • Anticholesteremic Agents
  • Heptanoic Acids
  • Pyrroles
  • Atorvastatin