“Purple Toe: A Syndrome from Head to Toe”

Abstract

Cholesterol crystal embolization is a rare multisystem disorder that originates from atherosclerotic plaques showering to different sites causing end organ damage. We present a 79-year-old man who developed purple discoloration of the left toe. Physical exam revealed tender purple toes with palpable distal pulses. The diagnosis of cholesterol emboli syndrome was made while differential diagnoses were ruled out. Despite medical management, his condition continued to slowly worsen.