All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) induced rhabdomyolysis in the induction treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is a very rare complication. However, rhabdomyolysis-related acute renal failure increases the risk of high morbidity and mortality. Here we describe a case of rhabdomyolysis associated with ATRA during the induction therapy in an adult with APL. Clinical implications are discussed with a critical review of existing literature and we expect to draw much more awareness among clinicians regarding such association.