RHABDOMYOLYSIS ASSOCIATED WITH AN ANAPHYL ACTIC SHOCK FROM SUXAMETHONIUM

A young woman without remarkable medical history, experienced a life t hreatening anaphylactoid reaction after induction of general anaesthes ia for an emergency curettage. Hypersensitivity reaction involving IgE antibodies against suxamethonium was proven by positive skin test and detection of specific IgE by radio-immune assay. After intensive ther apy for 2 to 3 hours, the patient exhibited rhabdomyolysis localized o n both calves. This complication, which required fasciotomies, did not result in renal failure. Local and general outcome was good. Rhabdomy olysis was due to compartmental ischaemia following shock and local ex ternal compression in the lithotomy position.