Fat Embolism Syndrome Which Induced Significant Cerebral Manifestation Without Respiratory Distress

Fat embolism syndrome is a collection of respiratory, neurological and cutaneous symptoms and signs associated with trauma and other disparate surgical and medical conditions. The incidence of clinical syndrome is low while the embolization of marrow fat appears to be an almost inevitable consequence of long bone fractures. The pathogenesis is a subject of conjecture and controversy. There are two theories which have gained acceptance(mechanical theory, biochemical theory). Onset of symptom is usually within 12 to 72 hours, but may manifest as early as 6 hours to as late as 10 days. The classic triad of fat embolism syndrome involves pulmonary changes, cerebral dysfunction and petechial rash. The cornerstone of treatment is preventing the stress response, hypovolemia and hypoxia and operative stabilization of fractures. Corticosteroid are the only drugs which have repeatedly shown a positive effect on the prevention and treatment of fat embolism syndrome. We report a case of post-traumatic fat embolism syndrome with severe cerebral involvement without respiratory distress. A 55 years old female had a traffic accident. She sustained pelvic bone fracture and both humerus fracture. Approximately 4 hours after the accident, mental status change developed without a focal neurologic deficits. She had no respiratory symptom and sign. Her brain MRI showed multiple cerebral fat embolism lesion. The patients received supportive treatment with corticosteroid, albumin. Her neurologic status stabilized over several days. After orthopedic surgery, she was discharged 62 days after admission.

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