A rare case of pyomyositis due to swine flu

Pyomyositis is a bacterial infectious disease of the large skeletal muscles, mostly seen in tropical regions. A case with such a multitude of abscesses has never been described in the western world, nor following an H1N1 infection. We report of a 31 year old man who presented himself with complaints of muscle pain and fever. His complaints were attributed to a proven H1N1 infection. However, despite proper therapy his condition worsened. He had developed multiple abscesses in both arms and legs. After surgical and radiologic drainage and antibiotic treatment our patient healed without any symptoms. Pyomositis is related with immuno-compromisation. Our patient might have been immunocompromised due to the H1N1 infection. Rhabdomyolysis following influenza has been described before, however a relation with H1N1 never was. Imaging studies help detect and confirm the diagnosis. When missed, serious complications may arise.