McArdle disease: an important consideration in atraumatic compartment syndrome

McArdle disease is a glycogen-storage disorder that typically presents with features including exercise intolerance, muscle pain and early fatigue. It can however result in muscle cell ischaemia and rhabdomyolysis, potentially causing myoglobinuria, renal failure and compartment syndrome. This paper outlines a case of bilateral atraumatic forearm compartment syndrome that resulted in a consequent diagnosis of McArdle disease when the patient presented with recurrent symptoms. It also discusses the mounting evidence to support an increased risk of compartment syndrome in association with this relatively young disease. Although rare, it is important to consider the diagnosis of McArdle disease in cases of atraumatic compartment syndrome, as this patient cohort warrants specific consideration, given their significant risk of rhabdomyolysis, compartment syndrome and renal failure. Level of evidence: Level V, Diagnostic study.