Fat embolism

Question 1

How does a fat embolism occur?

Answer 1

Fragments of fat enter the systemic circulation and go into small vessels

Question 2

What organ is usually affected by a fat embolism?

Answer 2

Lungs

Question 3

What is a fat embolism usually a result of?

Answer 3

Fracture- usually of a long bone

Question 4

What are the main respiratory symptoms of a fat embolism?

Answer 4

Early persistent tachycardia
Tachypnoea, dyspnoea, hypoxia usually 72 hours following injury
Pyrexia

Question 5

What dermatological signs can you get with a fat embolism?

Answer 5

Red/ brown impalpable petechial rash
Subconjunctival and oral haemorrhage/ petechiae

Question 6

What is the rash of a fat embolism similar to?

Answer 6

Meningococcal

non-blanching

Question 7

What are the CNS signs of a fat embolism?

Answer 7

Confusion and agitation
Retinal haemorrhages and intra-arterial fat globules on fundoscopy

Question 8

What is the probelem with imaging in someone presenting with a potential fat embolism?

Answer 8

Fat emboli tend to lodge distally and therefore CTPA may not show any vascular occlusion,

Question 9

What might you see on a chest x-ray in someone with a fat embolism?

Answer 9

A ground glass appearance may be seen at the periphery