Pulmonary Fat Embolism

Abstract

Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a common complication of fractures, usually of the long bones and pelvis. Common computed tomography findings of pulmonary FES include areas of consolidation, ground-glass opacities, and small nodules of various sizes, whereas filling defects in pulmonary arteries are rarely described in nonfulminant syndromes. We present an unusual case of nonfulminant pulmonary FES in which computed tomography disclosed multiple macroscopic pulmonary fat emboli associated to diffuse ground-glass attenuation in both lungs.

Pulmonary and Cerebral Fat Embolism Syndrome After Total Knee Replacement

“…Fat embolism syndrome with either pulmonary or cerebral involvement confirmed by radiologic modalities have been described in many previous studies, but few radiologic reports have described combined pulmonary and cerebral fat embolism in a patient with fat embolism syndrome after trauma or orthopaedic surgery [1, 2, 5-7]. So, we present an interesting case of fat embolism syndrome involving both brain and lung after total knee replacement, with a review of the literature including typical imaging findings.…”

“…Common CT findings of pulmonary fat embolism are non-specific focal or diffuse consolidation and ground glass opacity that may be due to interstitial or alveolar haemorrhage, oedema and chemical pneumonitis [2]. A finding of a filling defect in the pulmonary artery that shows negative HU is more favourable for a diagnosis of pulmonary fat embolism [2, 8].…”

“…A finding of a filling defect in the pulmonary artery that shows negative HU is more favourable for a diagnosis of pulmonary fat embolism [2, 8]. …”

“…In general, fat embolism is asymptomatic, but in 1-5% of patients, fat embolism results in the fat embolism syndrome associated with multiorgan dysfunction involving sites such as the lung, brain and skin due to direct entry of fat globules into the systemic circulation [1, 2, 4]. …”

“…Fat embolism syndrome typically develops 24 to 72 hours after the initial injury and usually appears with a classical triad consisting of hypoxemia, neurologic abnormality and petechial rash [2]. …”