Fat embolism syndrome
Fat embolism syndrome occurs when fat enters the blood stream (fat embolism) and results in symptoms. Symptoms generally begin within a day. This may include a petechial rash, decreased level of consciousness, and shortness of breath. Other symptoms may include fever and decreased urine output. The risk of death is about 10%.
| Fat embolism syndrome | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Fat embolism |
| Microscopic section of the lungs showing a blood vessel with fibrinoid material and an empty space indicative of the presence of lipid dissolved during the staining process. Haematoxylin and eosin stain | |
| Specialty | Orthopedics, traumatology, pulmonology, intensive care medicine |
| Symptoms | Petechial rash, decreased level of consciousness, shortness of breath |
| Complications | Personality changes, seizures, Vessel blockage |
| Usual onset | Within 24 hours |
| Causes | Bone fracture, pancreatitis, bone marrow transplant, liposuction |
| Diagnostic method | Based on symptoms |
| Differential diagnosis | Pulmonary embolism, pneumonia |
| Prevention | Early stabilization of long bone fractures |
| Treatment | Supportive care |
| Prognosis | 10% risk of death |
| Frequency | Rare |
Fat embolism most commonly occurs as a result of fractures of bones such as the femur or pelvis. Other potential causes include pancreatitis, orthopedic surgery, bone marrow transplant, and liposuction. The underlying mechanism involves widespread inflammation. Diagnosis is based on symptoms.
Treatment is mostly supportive care. This may involve oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, albumin, and mechanical ventilation. While small amounts of fat commonly occur in the blood after a bone fracture, fat embolism syndrome is rare. The condition was first diagnosed in 1862 by Zenker.