Fat Embolism Syndrome: Our Experience

Fat embolism syndrome is a serious consequence of fat emboli producing a distinct pattern of clinical symptoms and signs. It is most commonly associated with fractures of long bones and the pelvis. Patients usually present with signs and symptoms of multiorgan dysfunction, particularly involving the triad of lungs, brain, and skin. A combination of clinical criteria and MRI brain will enable early and accurate diagnosis of FES. Prevention, early diagnosis, and adequate symptomatic treatment are the mainstay of management. We present a case who became drowsy, after a few hours of a traumatic fracture and developed pulmonary insufficiency, cutaneous petechiae. MRI findings were consistent with cerebral fat embolism. Treatment included intensive care, artificial respiration, and symptomatic therapy. The patient had recovered completely. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bccj.v1i1.14370 Bangladesh Crit Care J March 2013; 1: 49-52