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

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. © 2013 The Japanese Society of Internal Medicine.