Fat embolism syndrome
| Fat embolism syndrome | ||
| ICD-10 | O88.8, T79.1 | |
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| ICD-9 | 673.8 | |
| DiseasesDB | 4766 | |
| MeSH | C14.907.355.350.454 | |
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Fat embolism syndrome Microchapters |
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Diagnosis |
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Treatment |
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Case Studies |
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Fat embolism syndrome On the Web |
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American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Fat embolism syndrome |
For patient information click here
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Epidemiology and Demographics
Pathophysiology
Natural History
Diagnosis
FES is a clinical diagnosis. Chest X-rays are normal in the majority. Some may have evidence of consolidation, edema or hemmorhage, usually in the periphery. Pulmonary ventilation/perfusion scans (V/Q scans) demonstrate multiple subsegmental perfusion defects.
The recovery of fat from pulmonary artery (PA) catheter wedged blood, sputum and urine is nonspecific. One study found fat in 50% of sera from patients with long bone fractures who had no evidence of FES. Bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) seem to be more specific by demonstrating fat droplets in alveolar macrophages.
Chest X Ray
Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Mortality occurs in 5-15% of patients. Early immobilization of fractures and operative rather than conservative management decrease the risk of FES. Some studies have shown a benefit in steroid prophylaxis for patients at high risk for FES (closed pelvic fracture), while others have not. There is no benefit to steroids after FES has developed.
References
Acknowledgements
Source of Initial Content: Morning report notes prepared by Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [2] and Dr. Duane Pinto
External links
Template:Consequences of external causes
- ↑ Gerald L. Weinhouse. Fat Embolism Syndrome.