Alcohol-Induced Rhabdomyolysis Complicated by Hyponatremia and Acute Kidney Injury Following Minor Trauma: A Case Report
Vinay Tulsian1, Drupad Das1, M Sukumar2 & Prasan Kumar Panda1 Show affiliations
- Department of Medicine Internal (ID Division), All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India
- Department of Medicine (Emergency Division), All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
American Journal of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Volume 20, Issue 1, pp. 16–20 · doi.org/10.3844/ajptsp.2026.16.20
Abstract
Rhabdomyolysis from alcohol is established, but combined binge intake, minor trauma, and vomiting-induced hyponatremia is a complex clinical scenario. Case study: This case report describes a young male with a three-year history of alcohol consumption who presented with rhabdomyolysis following binge drinking and a mild traumatic fall. He experienced 10 to 15 episodes of vomiting post-alcohol intake, subsequently developing anasarca. He reported decreased urine output and right-hand weakness. Examination revealed right-sided ulnar nerve involvement, and Clinical evaluation revealed acute kidney injury (creatinine: 8.44 mg/dL) and rhabdomyolysis (Creatine phosphokinase: 8872 U/L), attributed to a combination of trauma, excessive alcohol intake, and hyponatremia (serum sodium: 118 mmol/L) resulting from vomiting. Imaging studies ruled out bony injuries but identified an organized hematoma in the right gluteus maximus and myositis in bilateral thighs. Management and outcome: the patient received aggressive hydration and corrective measures for severe hyponatremia. By day 10 of hospitalization, his condition improved significantly, and during Follow-up visits, he showed complete resolution. Conclusion: This case illustrates how multiple synergistic triggers can precipitate severe rhabdomyolysis and underscores the importance of prompt and comprehensive intervention for successful patient outcomes.
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Tulsian, V., Das, D., Sukumar, M. & Panda, P. K. (2026). Alcohol-Induced Rhabdomyolysis Complicated by Hyponatremia and Acute Kidney Injury Following Minor Trauma: A Case Report. American Journal of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 20(1), 16–20. https://doi.org/10.3844/ajptsp.2026.16.20
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