Fat embolism

A fat embolism is a type of embolism that is often (but not always) caused by physical trauma.

Causes

Fat emboli can occur whenever there is a chance for fat to enter the circulatory system, such as during surgery or trauma. A common scenario is fatty marrow entering the circulation after a fracture to a large long bone such as the femur or pelvis, or after surgery on such a bone.

It can also occur during childbirth.

Presentation

Unlike emboli that arise from thrombi (blood clots), fat emboli are small and multiple, and so have widespread effects.

Fat Embolism Syndrome is distinct from the presence of fat emboli. Symptoms usually occur 1-3 days after the insult, and are predominantly: pulmonary (shortness of breath, hypoxemia), neurological (agitation, delirium, or coma), dermatological (petechial rash), and haematological (anaemia, low platelets). The syndrome manifests more frequently in closed fractures of the pelvis or long bones. The petechial rash, which usually resolves in 5-7 days is said to be pathognomonic of the syndrome; however, it only occurs in 20-50% of cases.

The risk of fat embolism syndrome is thought to be reduced by early immobilization of fractures, especially by early operative correction. There is also some evidence that steroid prophylaxis of high risk patients reduces the incidence. Treatment is supportive. The mortality rate of fat embolism syndrome is approximately 5-15%.

Translation of "Fat embolism"

German: Fettembolie, Japanese: 脂肪塞栓症, Portuguese: Embolia gordurosa.