Rare complication of four extremity compartment syndrome requiring fasciotomy from influenza A viral myositis

Abstract

Influenza A and B commonly cause benign respiratory disease in humans, but can cause more severe illness in high-risk populations. We report an unusual case of a previously healthy adult patient who presented with myositis and severe rhabdomyolysis secondary to influenza A infection that resulted in atraumatic compartment syndrome of all four extremities, each requiring emergent fasciotomy. The patient was subsequently managed with delayed primary closure and skin grafting in the operating room. Prompt recognition of this rare complication by the team resulted in no limb amputations. On his first follow-up appointment, 1 month after discharge, he had regained full functionality in both his hands and his feet were both close to 50% of baseline and improving with physical therapy.