Correct!
3. Fat embolism syndrome
The MRI brain reveals diffuse white matter abnormality with fine, granular abnormal lesions in a “starfield” pattern (arrows) consistent with cerebral fat embolism syndrome (FES).
FES is the clinical syndrome that follows the presence of fat globules in the pulmonary or peripheral circulation (1). FES is most common after traumatic orthopedic injuries (typically long bone fractures), and pulmonary fat emboli have been reported in up to 82% of blunt trauma patients at autopsy (2,3). However, FES is also known to complicate soft tissue trauma and non-traumatic events. These include elective orthopedic surgeries, cosmetic procedures that cause adipose tissue damage (plastic surgeries, implant placements, and even depot drug delivery), pancreatitis, and bony/soft tissue infections (4,5). Our patient developed FES after an elective liposuction procedure. A literature search published by Duran et al. (6) found 15 cases in the literature (Sept 1986 – Mar 2017) of fat embolism after liposuction, 6 of which occurred in the United States.
What is the classic triad of symptoms seen in fat emboli syndrome? (Click on the correct answer to be directed to the fourth of six pages)