Work

Acute compartment syndrome of the leg caused by cocaine use, creatine supplementation and vigorous exercise

Year: 2022

Type: article

Abstract: Delayed diagnosis of acute compartment syndrome (ACS) can be catastrophic. Reporting abnormal presentations to facilitate timely diagnosis and treatment is vital. We present a case of ACS in the deep posterior compartment of the leg with an unusual presentation and cause. The patient presented to the emergency department complaining of numbness on the plantar aspect of his left foot, and described a history of cocaine use, increased exercise and creatine supplementation. The patient was diagnosed with acute deep posterior compartment syndrome of the left leg and underwent a lower extremity fasciotomy. There are case reports demonstrating that strenuous activity, drug use and creatine supplementation cause increased compartment pressures and ACS. Rare in the literature is a case where these activities occur concurrently with the abnormal presentation of symptoms seen in this case. We hope this case brings awareness of atraumatic risk factors and uncommon presentations to the medical community.

Source: Journal of Surgical Case Reports

DOI: 10.1093/jscr/rjac502

Authors: Emilio L Robles, Killian M Pache, Joshua S Gluck

Institution: University of Washington

Language: English

Topic: Muscle and Compartmental Disorders

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $903