Keywords
Rosuvastatin
Ezetimibe
Rhabdomyolysis
Combined lipid-lowering therapy
Myotoxicity
How to Cite
Abstract
Background: Statins are widely used in cardiovascular prevention, but their use is not free of adverse effects. Among these, myopathies and rhabdomyolysis are rare but potentially serious complications. The risk increases with high-potency statins or when combined with other lipid-lowering agents. Rhabdomyolysis can progress to acute kidney injury, particularly in patients with comorbidities.
Purpose: To report a case of acute kidney injury secondary to rhabdomyolysis induced by rosuvastatin/ezetimibe.
Case presentation: We present the case of a 73-year-old woman with a history of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and dyslipidemia, recently started on rosuvastatin/ezetimibe, who was admitted with generalized muscle pain and oliguria lasting one week. Rhabdomyolysis was confirmed with elevated CPK, and she developed acute kidney injury, classified as AKIN stage III. Despite hydration and diuretic therapy, anuria persisted, requiring ICU admission and initiation of renal replacement therapy. The patient improved and was discharged with outpatient nephrology follow-up.
Discussion and conclusion: The risk of rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury should be considered when starting statins, especially in combination with other lipid-lowering drugs. Early clinical and laboratory monitoring helps detect complications and prevent severe outcomes.
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