Unexpected Neurological Sequelae following Cerebral Fat Embolism Syndrome

Abstract

Fat embolism syndrome is the most common form of non-thrombotic embolism and often described by presence of fat globules blocking small vessels in lung, skin or brain. The classical triad of fat embolism syndrome is respiratory manifestations, neurological signs and symptoms and petechial rash. Almost all neurological deficits are transient and fully reversible. Early diagnosis and supportive therapy is crucial for management of FES to decrease mortality and morbidity. We present a case of fat embolism syndrome due to multiple fractures recovered with neurological sequelae.

Fat Embolism Syndrome – Three Case Reports and Review of the Literature

“…However, these mechanisms are not necessarily mutually exclusive The former presumes that fractures of marrow containing bone have the highest incidence of FES due to disrupted venules in the marrow which are tethered open by osteous attachments that allows easy entry of marrow contents into the circulation [7]. From there on, it can enter the arterial circulation via a patent foramen ovale (PFO) causing increases in pulmonary artery and right heart pressures or by micro embolism via the lung demonstrated even in the absence of a PFO; the latter could explain the neurologic disease and petechiae associated with FES [8]. The biochemical theory or mechanism explains that destabilization of a plasma chylomicronemulsion lead stocoalescence off at stores.…”