COVID-19 associated rhabdomyolysis leading to major amputation in the absence of macrovascular thrombosis

Abstract

A 50 year old patient presented with bilateral lower extremity weakness, lethargy, and dyspnea. Nasopharyngeal swab was positive for SARS-CoV-2. She progressed to acute hypoxemic respiratory failure and hemodynamic instability requiring intubation, pressor support, and hemodialysis. Maculopapular rashes developed on bilateral lower extremities with progressively worsening rhabdomyolysis. Bilateral lower extremity fasciotomies were performed with subsequent serial operative debridements to remove necrotic muscle. One month later, she required a right above knee amputation. There was no evidence of macrovascular thrombosis. A high clinical suspicion of rhabdomyolysis in COVID-19 patients is necessary to avoid major limb loss.